Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep

The qualifications for being a safety pilot include the requirement to have a current medical certificate and adequate vision. This is crucial because the safety pilot's role is to monitor the pilot flying under simulated instrument conditions and provide a level of safety in case of an emergency. With a current medical, the safety pilot can ensure that they are physically fit to operate the aircraft should the need arise. Adequate vision is also essential because the safety pilot needs to be able to see and interpret critical visual information outside the aircraft, such as other aircraft and obstacles, which is vital for flight safety.

Having a current medical certificate and proper vision allows the safety pilot to effectively perform their oversight duties and respond to any issues that may occur. Other qualifications, such as holding an ATP certificate or having a specific number of flight hours, are typically not mandated for safety pilots. A student pilot can serve as a safety pilot if they meet the necessary medical and vision requirements, making the emphasis on those criteria particularly important.