NoSoupForYou

Hey gang-

I've been a CFI without interruption for over 40 years. But I haven't been actively instructing for a long time, so for many years been doing the in-person AOPA FIRC course. Yeah, it's a long two days, but it gets it done. I had planned to do the same this month.

Well of course all of them cancelled due to COVID, so I went ahead and signed up and paid for the AOPA online eFIRC. Now, after a week and only 25% done, I think this was a mistake. AOPA doesn't post or claim any particular runtime for the course or its modules, but I'm certain it is far far in excess of the 16 hours required by FAA. Just based on my progress, I'm going to put it at 25 hours or maybe more. I click Next as fast as one can, and I have passed every Module exam on the first try.

I'm probably going to just suck it up and finish this thing, but can anyone make a recommendation for next time? Would the American Flyers or Sporty's online courses be a better choice? I'm not looking for a gift or a gimme, just a course this is not ponderously long and far in excess of FAA requirements.

Thanks!

Terrain Inop

For ease and price American Flyers. AOPA has the best content.

NoSoupForYou

Thanks. No question the AOPA content is good. Does American Flyers handle the application online like AOPA? I've been an AOPA member since 1978...and a CFI since 1980...but this is just too much! I will always support AOPA as a member, but I don't think I would do this AOPA FIRC again.

Terrain Inop

Yes, American Flyers has an ACR service that will process your renewal via IACRA. Two years ago their fee for that service was $25. Make sure you complete the FIRC and start the ACR process with at least seven days remaining before your CFI Certificate expires.

rickair7777

Yes, AF great value with the lifetime renewals.

I did AOPA one year, finished at the 11th hour, and only then at the very end did they tell me I need to get the paperwork NOTARIZED before submitting. Cue frantic search for all-night notary (turns out bail bondsmen have them on speed-dial).

Tried AF next time and have been very happy for years. I think they require you to submit your 8710 (via IACRA) three days prior to expiration, but I'd definitely try to leave more time than that in case of any glitches. But do what I say, not what I do, I've submitted it at the last minute several times and it's been fine. Renewal was never a huge priority, at least not until now. It's all online, so no physical paperwork.

You can save the $25 and go to the FSDO with hardcopy if you're cheap.

CFI Guy

I’ve used Gleim for years for the main reason you stated- a limited amount of hours to complete. It costs $99 but if you value your time then it’s worth it IMHO.

I used to breeze through all the modules / exams in a couple hours. The system would give you warnings “to slow down and take this seriously” but didn’t prevent you from completing the course is less time. The last time I renewed (2018) a “mandatory timer” was instituted so you spend the required (16 hours) time no matter how quick you are.

I need to start my renewal as well and just logged into their site. I see they still have the timer so you can expect to spend no more than 16 hours. I just open up another window and do other work while it’s running. I think you just have to click on something once every 15 minutes or so. I’m not trying to cheat the system but why should I spend 2 hours reading an 8 page outline before a 10 question True/False exam.

They also have a paperless ACR service. I’m usually last minute so I just make an appointment with the FSDO. I’m always afraid I’ll make a mistake on the application and my cert will lapse due to an error on my part. I feel better when the inspector goes over it and hands me my temporary.

Terrain Inop

Keep in mind that the FSDOs are closed presently and are not available for FIRC renewal processing.

rickair7777

AF is the same, but free for life after your first one.

I shied away from that early on, seemed like there had to be a catch. There isn't one, guess they just hope you'll remember them if you need some training.

TommyDevito

Not true. While they are reduce staffing, the FSDO's as well as most of the FAA is still working.

Terrain Inop

The ASIs and ASTs are telecommuting. You won't find a FSDO that has counter hours to process a FIRC renewal. You'll need to use an ACR or DPE.