FAA Approved Renewal Course Innovative, Convenient, CFI's Said

CFIs who participated in AVSeminars first 'progressive' CFI Renewal Webinar have given high marks for the innovation and convenience. Josh Hunter, a Mobile, AL, air traffic controller says: "My last renewal was an online correspondence course. Dry and time-consuming. The webinar format combined the interaction and discussion of an in-person clinic with the ease and convenience of going online. Two years ago, I dreaded logging on and working through the endless quizzes. This time, I actually looked forward to each evening's session. I feel I gained a lot of knowledge and updated information, not to mention more contacts in the industry, without even leaving my house."

On April 11, 2011, the FAA approved AVSeminars renewal request to provide CFI renewals via webinar format. During trials in 2010, webinar FIRCs were tested as virtual classroom replacements for "live, in-person, weekend" FIRCs. CFIs who attended liked the technology process, but suggested that a series of weeknight webinars would better serve flight instructors. As a result of the feedback, AVSeminars' requested authority for 'progressive' FIRC webinars allowing flight instructors to attend 8, 2 hour webinar modules providing them with the 16 hours of minimum required training. Instructors can pick and choose dates and modules that are convenient for their schedules as long as they begin the first module within 6 months of their expiration and complete all 8 modules prior to their expiration date.

High-speed Internet, webcams and computer headsets are required for each attendee. The first series of webinars begin at 2000ET Monday through Thursday, however, additional webinars are planned to better accommodate other time zones.

The cost of the course is currently $96. This cost includes full processing of the Temporary Airman Certificate. After July 4th, registration fees will increase to $129.

FMI: www.avseminars.com