Originally Posted by
2StgTurbine
Yes you can log solo time as PIC. The instructor is responsible for providing adequate training and evaluation of a student pilot, but when a student pilot is flying solo, they are the ones making all the command decisions, so they get to log PIC.
You are absolutely correct and here is the reference from FAR 61.51.
(4) A student pilot may log pilot-in-command time only when the student pilot—
(i) Is the sole occupant of the aircraft or is performing the duties of pilot of command of an airship requiring more than one pilot flight crewmember;
(ii) Has a solo flight endorsement as required under §61.87 of this part; and
(iii) Is undergoing training for a pilot certificate or rating.
I have been a a CFII since 1987 but I don't do any light aircraft or primary instruction anymore so it's good to have a peep at the regs from time to time.
But I'm still not getting where a licensed pilot would EVER log solo time? I've never even heard of that.