MikeELP
Pattern Altitude
- Joined
- Jul 16, 2006
- Messages
- 1,645
- Location
- El Paso, TX; Santa Teresa, NM
- Display Name
Display name:
Mike Bruening
... It certainly does nothing to prove a pilot can safely transport passengers..
On its own, no.
Neither does being able to do a nice chandelle, or perform a smooth lazy-8, or a nail a steep spiral. Or effortlessly doing 8's on pylons.
As I said before...the long "solo" cross-country is ONE PART of demonstrating an advanced skill set for the commercial certificate.
In addition to flight maneuvers, your flight planning must be more precise. Your knowledge of aircraft operation and systems must be more thorough. You must have a solid understanding of commercial rules and regulations.
Taken individually, each really means nothing. Put together as they are in the commercial PTS they combine to show that you are qualified in the FAA's eyes to be a pilot for compensation or hire.
Simple as that.