Can you log simulator time as PIC?

You can log training time in a simulator but you can't log PIC time. The rules on logging are in 14 CFR 61.51. There's no requirement anywhere that I can see to have a medical and/or flight review in order to log time. Logging training time in a simulator is allowed by 61.51(h):



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Yes. All simulator time can be logged. However, the FAA sets limits on how much simulator time can be applied towards a specific certificate or rating.

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A pilot, whether acting as PIC or not, may log PIC time anytime in which he/she is sole manipulator of the controls of an aircraft for which he/she is rated (FAR 61.51). This is true regardless of weather conditions, whether VFR or IFR, simulated or actual.

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It depends on the simulator. If it is an FAA certified simulator, any use in the presence of an instructor or inspector may be logged toward required hours. There are limits and almost every FAA rating requires actual hours in a real flying airplane cockpit.

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To legally act as PIC, a private, commercial, and airline transport pilot must have a current medical certificate and have all required endorsements, ratings, and recency of experience for the type of aircraft being flown and the flight conditions under which the flight is conducted (FAR 61.3, 61.31, 61.56, 61.57).

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In addition, the pilot flying may also log PIC time as the sole manipulator of the controls. If the safety pilot is not designated as PIC, then second-in-command (SIC) time may be logged because the safety pilot is still a required crewmember.

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Under FAR 61.51(d)(3), a CFI can always log PIC time when they're serving as the authorized instructor (when rated in the aircraft). Because of this, both you and your instructor are allowed to log PIC time during training flights, even in the clouds.

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All flight in commercial companies is verified by the airline company. Private flight hours are not verified, but they can be cross-checked by examining the log book of the aircraft.

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