Ground School

Testing Problems

Student pilots have received emails and phone calls about testing centers not allowing devices and materials on the written test.

So, let’s address this matter head-on with a simple and easy solution, FAA Order 8080.6H (downloadable PDF below). This order has been in place for over 25 years and is set in stone. Just because an instructor or testing center has an opinion does not make it correct or their opinion enforceable.

Here is a basic outline of materials you can use on the test that fall under this FAA Order: Any FAA-approved calculating device (electronic E-6Bs), scales, straightedges, protractors, plotters, navigation computers, blank log sheets, holding pattern entry aids, and electronic or mechanical calculators. In addition, the testing center MUST supply each testing candidate with a copy of the FAA Testing Supplement for their area of testing.

Let me restate the facts: The above information is an FAA Order 8080.6H, and no one has the right to impose their opinion that contradicts this order.

A student in central Texas was told he could not use his 61-105 private pilots sign-off for the test because they were a 141 school. I’m afraid that’s not right. Then they told the student they needed to buy a costly book and take a $250.00 tutoring session from their instructor before they would let him take the test. This is not how things work.

Another young pilot candidate was set to take his test in Washington State and was told he could not have his watch, old Timex, or jacket while taking the test.

A Georgia mother and her two sons went to a testing center in Savannah to take their private pilot test. They were told they could not have any materials on the test, and the supplement was on the screen. All three failed the test, and the center/school laughed at them and told them they needed to study more. The mother contacted the local FASDO, and the problem was corrected.

Another instrument student bought a new aircraft with advanced avionics. When she returned to the flight school, she was told she had to fly their old aircraft, or she would be removed as a student.

A testing center or flight school can only refuse a device or materials if there is significant evidence that they have been altered from their original design.

Let’s get to the facts: download a copy of FAA Order 8080.6H (above) and take it when you take your test. If the center or school refuses to allow you to use the materials or device in question, call PSI at (1-844 704-1487). Explain the problem and ask to have your test canceled and rescheduled for another location.

Sadly, some businesses follow unethical business practices to help increase their bottom line. Instructors, flight schools, and everyone must keep their opinions and personal thoughts to themselves and follow FAA Orders and Regulations.

Student pilots have received emails and phone calls about testing centers not allowing devices and materials on the written test.

So, let’s address this matter head-on with a simple and easy solution, FAA Order 8080.6H (downloadable PDF below). This order has been in place for over 25 years and is set in stone. Just because an instructor or testing center has an opinion does not make it correct or their opinion enforceable.

Here is a basic outline of materials you can use on the test that fall under this FAA Order: Any FAA-approved calculating device (electronic E-6Bs), scales, straightedges, protractors, plotters, navigation computers, blank log sheets, holding pattern entry aids, and electronic or mechanical calculators. In addition, the testing center MUST supply each testing candidate with a copy of the FAA Testing Supplement for their area of testing.

Let me restate the facts: The above information is an FAA Order 8080.6H, and no one has the right to impose their opinion that contradicts this order.

A student in central Texas was told he could not use his 61-105 private pilots sign-off for the test because they were a 141 school. I’m afraid that’s not right. Then they told the student they needed to buy a costly book and take a $250.00 tutoring session from their instructor before they would let him take the test. This is not how things work.

A Georgia mother and her two sons went to a testing center in Savannah to take their private pilot test. They were told they could not have any materials on the test, and the supplement was on the screen. All three failed the test, and the center/school laughed at them and told them they needed to study more. The mother contacted the local FASDO, and the problem was corrected.

Another instrument student bought a new aircraft with advanced avionics. When she returned to the flight school, she was told she had to fly their old aircraft, or she would be removed as a student.

A testing center or flight school can only refuse a device or materials if there is significant evidence that they have been altered from their original design.

Let’s get to the facts: download a copy of FAA Order 8080.6H (above) and take it when you take your test. If the center or school refuses to allow you to use the materials or device in question, call PSI at (1-844 704-1487). Explain the problem and ask to have your test canceled and rescheduled for another location.

Sadly, some businesses follow unethical business practices to help increase their bottom line. Instructors, flight schools, and everyone must keep their opinions and personal thoughts to themselves and follow FAA Orders and Regulations.