FAA Gives AVSeminars Authorization For CFI Renewals On The Web

The FAA has issued AVSeminars a Letter of Authorization to conduct Flight Instructor Refresher Clinics via Webinar. In the letter, Greg French, an FAA  headquarters-based Aviation Inspector who oversees the CFI renewal process in Washington, said  AVSeminars had demonstrated that it is capable of conducting FIRC webinars with the security and comprehensiveness of the same caliber of Clinics conducted in a classroom setting. "We believe that webinar technology used for CFI renewals is important because it affords CFIs the ability to be part of the "live" experience of interacting with fellow instructors from the comfort and convenience of their homes and offices," French wrote.

AVSeminars conducted its first "test" of a webinar FIRC on April 10 & 11. Evidenced by the response of the CFIs who attended, the FAA recognized AVSeminars' ability to be effective in retaining a high degree of interactivity with the CFIs, while affording a comfortable, economical learning environment.

CFIs are offered many options for renewing their licenses. A FIRC or equivalent is required each year for Chief Instructors and Assistant Chief Instructors of Part 141 flight schools. And, although most active flight instructors are eligible to renew through their pass-rate record each two years, many of these consider a FIRC to be essential in their ability to be a consistently better and effective instructor.
The first of AVSeminars webinar FIRCs is scheduled for the weekend of June 26 & 27 from 0900 to 1800 ET with an hour free for lunch. The cost is $169 that includes the Temporary Airman's Certificate which is mailed at the conclusion of the webinar and satisfactory completion of the written tests. At least one webinar is scheduled each month.

Initial classes are limited to 24 CFIs who need to be ready with high-speed internet connection, webcam, and computer headset. Photo IDs need to be furnished in advance either through the internet or mail. Other than these conditions the AVSeminars FIRC is conducted exactly like their highly acclaimed "live" CFI Renewals.

AVSeminars continues to provide "live", in-person FIRCs, in addition to the webinar FIRCs. The next will be held at Herlong Airport in Jacksonville, FL on June 12 & 13.

FMI: www.avseminars.com