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VOLUME 13 FLIGHT STANDARDS DESIGNEES

CHAPTER 3 DESIGNATED AIRCRAFT DISPATCHER EXAMINER

Section 4 The Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test

13-221 APPLICABILITY. This section contains directives, guidance, and information related 

to the administration of the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test. For the purposes of this section,

the term “examiner” applies to a Designated Aircraft Dispatcher Examiner (DADE) or an 

Aviation Safety Inspector–Aircraft Dispatcher (ASI-AD) who administers the Aircraft 

Dispatcher Practical Test. This chapter is primarily directed towards DADEs and their Federal 

Aviation Administration (FAA) managing specialists. However, the information contained in this 

section that is related to the actual conduct of the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test applies to 

any examiner. Applicant eligibility requirements and application processing information are 

contained in this section and in Volume 5, Chapter 5, Section 10, which contains information on 

the overall requirements for aircraft dispatcher certification.

13-222 PROGRAM TRACKING AND REPORTING SUBSYSTEM (PTRS) ACTIVITY 

CODES.

A. PTRS Activity Codes: 1513, 1524, 1555.

B. Information on PTRS Entries. See Volume 5, Chapter 5, Section 10 for information 

regarding specific PTRS entries.

13-223 GENERAL.

A. No More Than Two Tests Per Day. An examiner may not administer more than two 

Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Tests per day. (See Volume 13, Chapter 3, Section 2.)

B. Single Applicant Only. An examiner may not administer any portion of the Aircraft 

Dispatcher Practical Test to more than one applicant at a time.

C. No Applicant Notes. Examiners must not permit applicants to have any notes or 

documents in the testing area other than those specifically listed in the current edition of 

FAA-S-8081-10, Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test Standards (PTS).

D. No Instruction During Testing. Examiners may not provide the applicant with any 

instruction during the practical test. If the applicant requires instruction, then it’s possible that the 

applicant is struggling in a particular area and could fail the test.

E. Policy Regarding Observers. Generally, observers may not be present during the 

conduct of the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test.

1) At no time will another applicant for an Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate observe, 

or be present in the same room or testing area, during the conduct of the Aircraft Dispatcher 

Practical Test.

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2) An FAA managing specialist may always observe a DADE conducting the 

Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test.

3) No other observers may monitor the test without permission from the FAA 

managing specialist and agreement from the DADE and the applicant.

F. Test Time. In accordance with the Aircraft Dispatcher PTS, an examiner should allot, 

on average, no less than 4 hours and no more than 6 hours to conduct a test. The PTS 

requirements are extensive, and examiners must ensure that they thoroughly administer the test.

An applicant’s ability to complete any portion of the test in a reasonable amount of time must be 

part of the examiner’s evaluation criteria. Inability by an applicant to complete the Aircraft 

Dispatcher Practical Test in a timely manner may be an indication that the applicant lacks the 

ability to manage his or her workload. Workload management is a critical element of performing 

the duties of an aircraft dispatcher.

13-224 PREREQUISITES AND COORDINATION REQUIREMENTS.

A. Prerequisites. This task requires knowledge of Title 14 of the Code of Federal 

Regulations (14 CFR) parts 1, 61, 65, 91, 110, 119, 121, and 183 and the policies set forth in this 

order.

B. Coordination. This task may require coordination between the managing FAA 

office, regional Flight Standards division (RFSD), and/or the Air Transportation Division 

(AFS-200).

13-225 REFERENCES, FORMS, AND JOB AIDS.

A. References (current editions):

• Title 14 CFR Parts 1, 61, 65, 91, 110, 119, 121, and 183.

• Title 49 of the United States Code (49 U.S.C.).

B. Forms:

• FAA Form 8000-36, Program Tracking and Reporting Subsystem Data Sheet.

• FAA Form 8060-4, Temporary Airman Certificate.

• FAA Form 8060-5, Notice of Disapproval of Application.

• FAA Form 8400-3, Application for an Airman Certificate and/or Rating.

• FAA Form 8710-6, Examiner Designation and Qualification Record.

C. Job Aids:

• Figure 13-20, Sample Letter of Aeronautical Competency – Successful Applicant 

of Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate Less Than 23 Years of Age.

• Figure 13-21, FAA Form 8060-5, Notice of Disapproval of Application.

• Figure 13-22, Sample Letter of Discontinuance.

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13-226 APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY. Prior to testing any applicant for an Aircraft Dispatcher 

Certificate, an examiner must verify:

A. Age. To be eligible to take the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test, a person must be at 

least 21 years of age. This is based on the minimum age requirement for the “ADX Knowledge 

Test”. The minimum age requirement for an Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate is 23 years of age.

Therefore, applicants who take the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test prior to reaching 23 years 

of age are not entitled to an Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate. Applicants under the age of 23 who 

pass the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test will be issued a Letter of Aeronautical Competency in 

lieu of a Temporary Airman Certificate. The FAA managing specialist will issue the letter.

A DADE may not issue a Letter of Aeronautical Competency. (Letters of Aeronautical 

Competency are discussed in greater detail in subparagraph 13-233B. See also Volume 5, 

Chapter 5, Section 10.)

B. English Language Requirements. To be eligible to take the Aircraft Dispatcher 

Practical Test and be issued an Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate, a person must be able to read, 

speak, write, and understand the English language in accordance with part 65, § 65.53. Any 

applicant who fails to demonstrate this ability will not be issued an Aircraft Dispatcher 

Certificate. An examiner will administer the entire Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test in English.

An examiner must establish an applicant’s ability to read, speak, and write the English language 

prior to administering the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test. 

1) Follow AC 60-28 Guidelines. In order to establish an applicant’s English 

language skills, examiners will use the current edition of Advisory Circular (AC) 60-28, English 

Language Skill Standards Required by 14 CFR Parts 61, 63, and 65, as a baseline. The AC 

provides guidelines on basic requirements for pronunciation, structure, vocabulary, fluency, 

interaction, and comprehension, as well as guidelines that are specific to applicants for an 

Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate. In accordance with the AC, examiners will require each applicant 

to read, and demonstrate an understanding of, Aviation Routine Weather Reports (METAR) and 

Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAF). The applicant must be able to demonstrate the ability to 

communicate clearly and concisely using the various methods of radiotelephony communications 

such as telephone, satellite phone, and very high frequency (VHF) and high frequency (HF) 

radio. 

2) Applicants Must be Capable of Clear and Concise Communication in 

English. Aircraft dispatchers are required for all part 121 domestic and flag operations. When 

working for a part 121 domestic and/or flag air carrier, aircraft dispatchers are required to 

communicate critical information to pilots in command (PIC) using these various methods of 

radiotelephony communications. Examiners must be able to establish that an applicant is capable 

of clear and concise communication using any of these methods. (See also Volume 5, Chapter 5, 

Section 10.)

C. Airman Knowledge Test. Each applicant must present an original, embossed 

Airman Knowledge Test Report showing satisfactory test results. The applicant must have 

passed the test within the preceding 24 calendar-months prior to completion of the practical test.

D. Application. Each applicant must complete and sign an FAA Form 8400-3.

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E. Experience/Training Requirement. Each applicant for an Aircraft Dispatcher 

Certificate must show evidence satisfactory to the Administrator of having obtained experience 

or training in accordance with § 65.57.

1) Graduates of an FAA-Approved Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course in 

Accordance with § 65.57(b). Applicants possessing a statement of graduation and an 

instructor’s recommendation from an FAA-approved Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course

meet the training requirements of § 65.57(b) and are eligible to take the Aircraft Dispatcher 

Practical Test. A DADE may test an applicant who has graduated from an FAA-approved course.

a) Written Statement of Graduation. The applicant must present a valid written 

statement of graduation. A statement of graduation is valid for 90 days, unless revalidated by the 

course operator. A course operator may revalidate a statement of graduation for an additional 

90 days in accordance with § 65.70(b). Course operators typically issue a statement of graduation

in the form of a graduation certificate or diploma. Each statement of graduation is required to 

contain at least the following:

1. A signature by an authorized representative of the course operator 

attesting to the applicant’s successful completion of the Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course.

2. The total number of hours of instruction administered to the applicant.

3. The statement of graduation must contain or have attached to it all of the 

topics and subtopics for which a student has been given credit allowed by § 65.61(d). If included 

as an attachment, the student will present the attachment along with a copy of the statement of 

graduation to the examiner who administers the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test. In 

conjunction with the requirements contained in the Aircraft Dispatcher PTS, examiners will 

focus attention on the topics for which a student has been given credit to determine if the student 

has an adequate level of understanding of those topics.

b) Instructor’s Recommendation. The applicant must have an instructor’s 

recommendation. FAA Form 8400-3 requires an instructor to enter his or her recommendation in 

section 7. The instructor’s signature indicates the applicant has met the requirements for, and is 

ready to take, the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test.

2) Applicants Who Provide Documentary Evidence of Experience in 

Accordance with § 65.57(a)(1), (2), or (3). Applicants who have not graduated from an FAAapproved Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course, but instead present documentary evidence of 

having experience in accordance with § 65.57(a)(1), (2), or (3), may be eligible to take the 

Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test, provided the Administrator finds the documentary evidence to 

be satisfactory. In this case, the Administrator will be represented by the FAA managing 

specialist, who will review the documentary evidence to determine if it is satisfactory. A DADE 

may not make this determination. If the FAA managing specialist determines the documentary 

evidence is satisfactory, the specialist may authorize the DADE to administer the test to the 

applicant. If an ASI-Air Carrier Operations (ASI-AC-OP) has been temporarily assigned as the 

FAA managing specialist, an ASI-AD must determine the documentary evidence is satisfactory 

before the ASI-AC-OP may authorize a DADE to administer the test. An FAA managing 

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specialist may grant the authorization to the DADE to test an applicant who qualifies under § 

65.57(a)(1), (2), or (3) on a case-by-case basis only. The FAA managing specialist must retain 

the applicant’s documentary evidence as part of the airman certification file. (See also Volume 

13, Chapter 3, Sections 1 and 2, and Volume 5, Chapter 5, Section 10.)

3) Applicants Who Provide Documentary Evidence of Experience in Aircraft 

Operations in Accordance with § 65.57(a)(4) Require Approval from AFS-200.

Section 65.57(a)(4) allows an applicant to present documentary evidence to the Administrator of 

having performed other duties in aircraft operations that may provide equivalent experience to 

what is prescribed in § 65.57(a)(1), (2) or (3). For the purposes of § 65.57(a)(4), the 

Administrator will be represented by AFS-200, who will make the ultimate determination as to 

whether or not the applicant’s documentary evidence is satisfactory and shows experience 

equivalent or greater than what is prescribed in § 65.57(a)(1), (2), or (3). No examiner (ASI-AD 

or DADE) may administer the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test to an applicant presenting 

evidence of equivalent experience in accordance with § 65.57(a)(4) without first obtaining 

written approval from AFS-200.

a) Requests for approval from AFS-200 must come from the AFS field office

manager, through the manager of the RFSD, to the manager of AFS-200. All requests for 

approval must be accompanied by documentary evidence of the applicant’s experience.

b) Prior to requesting approval from AFS-200, all documentary evidence

submitted by the applicant must be reviewed by an ASI-AD. The ASI-AD is responsible to make 

the initial determination as to whether or not the documentary evidence is satisfactory. If the 

ASI-AD’s initial determination is that the evidence is satisfactory, the AFS field office manager 

will document the ASI-AD’s determination in the memo requesting approval from AFS-200 to 

test the applicant. The AFS field office manager will send the memo to the manager of AFS-200 

through the manager of the RFSD.

c) Upon receiving the memo from the AFS field office manager, the RFSD must 

review the request. If the RFSD concurs with the request, the manager will concur by memo and 

recommend approval to the manager of AFS-200.

d) If the RFSD does not concur with the request, it may not forward it to 

headquarters (HQ) for review.

e) If AFS-200 determines the applicant’s documentary evidence showing 

equivalent experience is satisfactory, AFS-200 will grant approval to test the applicant via 

memo.

f) Upon receiving approval from AFS-200, the FAA managing specialist may 

authorize the DADE to test the applicant on a one-time-only basis. The FAA managing specialist 

must observe the DADE administering the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test to the applicant.

Approval letters from AFS-200 must be retained as part of an applicant’s airman certification 

file. (See also Volume 5, Chapter 5, Section 10.)

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4) Required Documentation of Training and Experience to be Provided by the 

Applicant.

a) An applicant who has graduated from an FAA-approved Aircraft Dispatcher 

Certification Course in accordance with § 65.57(b) must present the following documentary 

evidence:

• An original, embossed Airman Knowledge Test Report showing 

satisfactory test results,

• A statement of graduation, issued or revalidated in accordance with 

§ 65.70(b), showing that the applicant has successfully completed an 

FAA-approved Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course, and

• FAA Form 8400-3 with an instructor’s recommendation entered in 

section 7.

b) An applicant providing documentary evidence of experience in accordance 

with any of the provisions of § 65.57(a) must submit the following types of documents as 

evidence of experience:

• Letters from employers on company letterhead accompanied by applicable 

training records (letters from employers must contain contact information 

(e.g., telephone or fax) for verification purposes);

• Logbooks;

• Military service records; and

• Employment records.

c) The FAA managing specialist must verify the validity of all documentary 

evidence presented in association with any of the provisions of § 65.57(a) as part of the process 

for determining whether or not the documentary evidence is satisfactory. The FAA managing 

specialist must retain a copy of the documentary evidence provided by the applicant as part of 

the applicant’s airman certification file. If AFS-200 granted approval to test the applicant, the 

approval letter must also be retained as part of the certification file.

13-227 IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS. The identification requirements contained in 

this section are based on the requirements contained in the current edition of FAA Order 8080.6, 

Conduct of Airman Knowledge Tests.

A. Verification of Identity. The applicant must provide valid, positive proof of 

identification. The identification may be presented in more than one form, and must contain at 

least the following:

• An official photograph of the applicant,

• The applicant’s date of birth,

• The applicant’s signature, and

• The applicant’s physical residential address.

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B. Acceptable Forms of Identification.

1) U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens. Acceptable forms of photo identification for 

U.S. citizens and resident aliens include:

• Driver’s license issued by a U.S. state or territory,

• U.S. government identification card,

• U.S. military identification card, or

• Passport or alien residency card.

2) Non-U.S. Citizens. Acceptable forms of photo identification for non-U.S. citizens 

must include a passport and one or more of the following:

• Driver’s license issued by a U.S. state or territory, and/or

• Identification card issued by any government entity.

C. Annotation of Identification Accepted. When an examiner accepts the form(s) of 

identification, he or she must annotate the “Practical Test Report” section of FAA Form 8400-3.

Copies of identification documentation do not have to accompany the application package; 

simply reference the identification in the appropriate section on the back of the form.

13-228 CONTENTS OF APPLICATION PACKAGE. The applicant must provide the 

following prior to testing:

• A completed FAA Form 8400-3 with an instructor’s recommendation entered in 

section 7;

• An original, embossed Aircraft Dispatcher Airman Knowledge Test Report showing 

satisfactory test results;

• A statement of graduation issued or revalidated (in accordance with § 65.70(b)) 

showing that the applicant has successfully completed an FAA-approved Aircraft 

Dispatcher Certification Course (a statement of graduation is not required if the 

applicant has not attended an FAA-approved part 65 Aircraft Dispatcher Certification 

Course); and

• If the applicant does not have a statement of graduation, then the application package 

must include the documentary evidence required to support the previous experience 

listed in § 65.57(a). (See subparagraph 13-226E2) through 4).)

13-229 APPLICATIONS PROCESSED VIA THE INTEGRATED AIRMAN 

CERTIFICATION AND/OR RATING APPLICATION (IACRA). Information related to the 

use of the IACRA system to process airman applications is available at the following Web site: 

https://iacra.faa.gov/iacra/default.aspx. DADEs require approval from their FAA managing 

specialist before using IACRA.

13-230 AIRCRAFT DISPATCHER PTS. The FAA requires examiners to administer all 

Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Tests in accordance with the Aircraft Dispatcher PTS. While using 

the PTS, the examiner must evaluate the applicant’s knowledge and skill in sufficient depth to 

determine that the applicant met the standards of performance listed for all “Tasks.”

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A. Introduction. The “Introduction” section of the Aircraft Dispatcher PTS contains 

general guidance, information, and examiner responsibilities. Examiners must review the 

“Introduction” section thoroughly and adhere to instructions contained therein.

B. Areas of Operation. “Areas of operation” are phases of the practical test arranged in 

a logical sequence within the standard. They begin with “Flight Planning/Dispatch Release” and 

end with “Abnormal and Emergency Procedures.” The examiner, however, may conduct the 

practical test in any sequence that will result in a complete and efficient test.

C. Task. “Tasks” are titles of knowledge areas or procedures appropriate to an area of

operation.

D. Plan of Action (POA). The examiner will develop a written POA for each Aircraft 

Dispatcher Practical Test he or she administers. The POA must include all required tasks in each 

area of operation. If the elements in one task have already been evaluated in another task, they 

need not be repeated. An examiner may change the sequence or combine tasks with similar 

objectives to conserve time. An examiner only needs to evaluate each element once if he or she 

has evaluated it sufficiently within a particular task. Examiners are expected to follow the POA; 

therefore, they must construct it in a manner that flows and is flexible enough to account for 

variables and unexpected situations, should they arise. A POA must be comprehensive enough to 

ensure evaluation of all selected tasks.

NOTE: Although the Aircraft Dispatcher PTS allows for utilization of different 

POAs, examiners should always administer tests in a manner that best illustrates a 

logical working flow of aircraft dispatcher duties and responsibilities as they 

would be at an air carrier. It is of the utmost importance that the examiner 

captures a logical workflow through the use of realistic scenarios in order to be 

able to evaluate the applicant’s ability to perform the duties of an aircraft

dispatcher with a high degree of safety.

E. Knowledge. The knowledge portion of the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test is often 

referred to as the oral portion. In this phase of the test, examiners will determine through oral 

questioning whether the applicant has acquired adequate practical knowledge.

1) Examiners should base questions on the tasks outlined in the Aircraft Dispatcher 

PTS and phrase them in clear and concise terms. Examiners must test to the greatest extent 

practicable the applicant’s correlative abilities, rather than rote memorization of facts, throughout 

the practical test.

2) In accordance with the Aircraft Dispatcher PTS, there is no formal division 

between the knowledge and skill portions of the practical test. Evaluation of applicants must be 

an ongoing process throughout the test. The examiner should use oral questioning prudently to 

determine the applicant’s knowledge of tasks and related safety factors. Examiners must test to 

the maximum extent practicable the applicant’s correlative abilities, rather than rote 

memorization of facts, throughout the practical test.

F. Skill. The skill portion of the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test is the phase where the 

applicant demonstrates the ability to complete several intricate manual calculations, including 

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those necessary to prepare a manual flight plan. Once the applicant completes these calculations, 

examiners must test the applicant in his or her knowledge of the manual calculations involved 

through oral questioning. In accordance with the PTS, the skill portion of the test requires the 

following critical calculations (refer to the PTS for the full requirements):

• Preparation of a manual flight plan and dispatch release for a flight between

authorized airports selected by the examiner;

• Preparation of a load manifest;

• Calculation of takeoff data; and

• Calculation of landing data.

G. Satisfactory Performance. In accordance with § 65.17, the minimum passing grade 

for each test prescribed by part 65 is 70 percent. Calculating a test score for the Aircraft 

Dispatcher Practical Test can be somewhat subjective. The Aircraft Dispatcher PTS defines 

satisfactory performance this way: “Satisfactory performance: means that, in the judgment of the 

examiner, the applicant is able to demonstrate skill and correctly respond to the examiner’s 

questions at least 70 percent of the time.” Each examiner must have a method of determining 

this.

H. Unsatisfactory Performance. Unsatisfactory performance is determined by the 

examiner. If, in the judgment of the examiner, the applicant does not meet the objectives of any 

task, or otherwise fails to correctly respond to the examiner’s questions at least 70 percent of the 

time, the examiner will deem the applicant’s performance to be unsatisfactory.

I. Typical Areas of Unsatisfactory Performance and Grounds for Disqualification.

The PTS contains a list of typical areas of unsatisfactory performance and grounds for 

disqualification. Errors, lack of performance, and/or failures in these areas should be considered

as grounds for failure of the entire Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test.

• Failure to appropriately apply the conditions and limitations of any minimum 

equipment list (MEL)/Configuration Deviation List (CDL) item;

• Actions by the applicant that would constitute a violation of 14 CFR if the

applicant were actually dispatching a flight;

• Exceeding any Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) limitation;

• Failure to comply with operations specifications (OpSpecs); and

• Failure to properly interpret any Notices to Airmen (NOTAM).

J. Special Emphasis Areas. The Aircraft Dispatcher PTS lists several “Special 

Emphasis Areas.” Examiners must place special emphasis upon areas that are most critical to 

dispatching and flight safety. Among these are:

• Positive operational control;

• Aircraft performance and driftdown;

• Weather requirements for departure/destination and alternate airports;

• Hazardous weather awareness, recognition, and avoidance;

• Aeronautical decision-making (ADM);

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• Risk management procedures (RMP);

• Dispatcher resource management (DRM); and

• Other areas deemed appropriate to any phase of the practical test.

NOTE: Although these areas may not be specifically addressed under each task, 

they are essential to dispatching and flight safety and must be evaluated during 

the practical test.

K. Reference Materials. Where appropriate, the applicant should be allowed to use 

printed reference material commonly available to an aircraft dispatcher while working at an air 

carrier. Reference materials may only include those items specifically listed in the Aircraft 

Dispatcher PTS. Examiners must not permit applicants to have any personal notes or documents 

in the testing area at any time during the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test.

13-231 ADMINISTER THE AIRCRAFT DISPATCHER PRACTICAL TEST.

A. Prior Notification. A DADE must notify the FAA managing specialist at least 

48 hours prior to scheduling any Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test (including a retest) in order to 

provide the specialist with an opportunity to conduct surveillance of the DADE. The FAA 

managing specialist may instruct the DADE to provide more than 48 hours notice.

B. Test Scenarios. The examiner will develop at least three flight plan test scenarios,

which use actual operational data to simulate irregular operations and non-normal situations. 

Developing multiple scenarios allows the examiner to choose which scenario he or she will use 

for a particular test, and it prevents test applicants from successfully sharing test information 

with each other. The FAA managing specialist will review the test scenarios periodically and 

advise a DADE when the scenarios need to be revised or updated. Examiners will update the 

scenarios as necessary at least once a year and will provide at least the following items to the 

applicant:

• Weather, to include METAR, Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAF), Winds 

Aloft, appropriate charts, and Pilot Weather Reports (PIREP);

• NOTAMs;

• The authorized airports upon which the manual flight plan will be calculated; and

• Weight and Balance (W&B) Form for the appropriate aircraft.

NOTE: Refer to the Aircraft Dispatcher PTS for student supply requirements.

C. Testing Facility. The examiner must ensure that the testing facility meets 

requirements equivalent to those required by § 65.65 and Volume 3, Chapter 63, Section 3. The 

facility must be private, be free from distractions, and provide the applicant with sufficient space 

to complete the skill portions of the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test. The testing facility must 

be equipped with writing surfaces (desks, tables, etc.) that provide the applicant with sufficient 

space to use all necessary testing materials such as aeronautical en route charts and AFMs.

D. Tracking. A DADE must keep a record of the practical test he or she has 

administered. To satisfy this requirement, a DADE may keep a copy of each FAA Form 8400-3,

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or he or she may use another means to track each test, such as the one illustrated in Volume 13, 

Chapter 3, Section 1, Figure 13-14, Sample Practical Test Tracking Form.

13-232 EVALUATION OF THE APPLICANT. Examiners will evaluate each applicant in 

accordance with the requirements of the Aircraft Dispatcher PTS. Each examiner is responsible 

for determining that the applicant demonstrates acceptable knowledge and skill for each task

within the PTS. An examiner must test to the greatest extent practicable the applicant’s 

correlative abilities, rather than rote memorization of facts, throughout the practical test. If an 

examiner determines that a task is incomplete or the outcome is uncertain, he or she may require 

the applicant to repeat that task or portions of it. An examiner must not provide instruction to the 

applicant or allow the applicant to practice for the purposes of successfully completing any task. 

Examiners must inform applicants of the level of performance expected before beginning the 

test.

13-233 SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS. When an applicant has successfully completed the 

Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test, examiners and the FAA managing specialist will accomplish 

the following, according to the applicant’s age.

A. Applicants 23 Years of Age or Older. Successful applicants who are 23 years of age

or older are entitled to a Temporary Airman Certificate (FAA Form 8060-4).

1) Prepare the Application for an Airman Certificate and/or Rating (FAA 

Form 8400-3). DADEs and FAA managing specialists must complete FAA Form 8400-3 as 

follows:

a) DADE. The DADE will complete sections 8 and 10 and note any remarks in 

the “Remarks” section at the end of the form.

1. Section 8, Evaluation Record. Complete the Evaluation Record in 

section 8 of the form. Only complete the “Practical Test Aircraft Dispatcher” block of the 

section. The “Oral” block of section 8 does not apply to the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test.

DADEs will use the “Examiner” column of section 8, affix their signature, enter their 

designation and Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate numbers, and then sign the form. DADEs will 

enter the date on which they administered the test.

2. Section 10, Practical Test Report. Complete the practical test report in 

section 10 of the form. Document the subject areas with an “S” for satisfactory.

3. Section 10, Practical Test Report Remarks. Complete the “Remarks”

section of the form as appropriate.

b) Managing Specialist. The FAA managing specialist will complete section 9 of 

FAA Form 8400-3, as follows:

1. Select either “Temporary Airman Certificate Issued” or “Notice of 

Disapproval of Application Issued,” as appropriate.

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2. Select “Examiner’s Action Accepted” (unless the FAA managing 

specialist intends to reject the DADE’s actions).

3. Enter signature, date, and FAA office information.

4. Select “Aircraft Dispatcher” located under the box provided for the FAA 

Office information.

2) Issue FAA Form 8060-4. If authorized in the letter of authority (LOA), the 

DADE will issue the Temporary Airman Certificate in duplicate and sign the signature block as 

the examiner. The DADE will enter his or her designee number and the date the designation 

expires. The DADE will give one copy of the Temporary Airman Certificate to the applicant and 

retain the other copy with the certification file. (See Volume 5, Chapter 1, Section 5, to view 

instructions at the end of the section for completing this form.)

3) Obtain Contact Information. The DADE will obtain contact information where 

the applicant can be reached during the next 120 days in the event of application problems. The 

DADE will record the contact information in the “Remarks” section of FAA Form 8400-3.

4) Forward Application Package to FAA Managing Specialist. A DADE will 

forward an application package to the FAA managing specialist within 7 calendar-days of 

administering the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test, unless otherwise specified by the FAA 

managing specialist. FAA managing specialists may specify another time period based on a high 

volume of tests. However, the time in which a DADE may forward an application package may 

not be extended beyond 14 calendar-days after conducting a test. The DADE must provide the 

following documents to the managing specialist as part of the application package:

• The completed FAA Form 8400-3;

• Original copy of FAA Form 8060-4 (if issued by the DADE);

• The original Airman Knowledge Test Report;

• A copy of the written statement of graduation (the applicant retains the 

original) if the applicant has successfully completed an FAA-approved 

Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course; and

• A completed FAA Form 8000-36 (if provided by the managing specialist).

5) Forward Application Package to the Airmen Certification Branch 

(AFS-760). The FAA managing specialist will forward certification application packages to 

AFS-760, as follows:

• The completed FAA Form 8400-3;

• The original copy of FAA Form 8060-4;

• The original Airman Knowledge Test Report; and

• A copy of the written statement of graduation (the applicant retains the 

original) if the applicant has successfully completed an FAA-approved 

Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course.

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6) Document the DADE’s Activity. The FAA managing specialist will document 

the DADE’s activity in the PTRS using activity code 1555,

“CERT/EXMNR/DESIG/DISPATCHER.” Instructions on how to complete the activity are 

contained in Volume 5, Chapter 5, Section 10, paragraph 5-1371.

B. Applicants Under the Age of 23. An applicant under the age of 23 is not entitled to a 

Temporary Airman Certificate until the applicant reaches his or her 23rd birthday. Successful 

applicants under the age of 23 will be issued a Letter of Aeronautical Competency in lieu of a 

Temporary Airman Certificate. The FAA managing specialist will issue the letter on official 

FAA letterhead. The Letter of Aeronautical Competency must contain the statement that the 

applicant has met all of the requirements for an Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate except for age.

A sample Letter of Aeronautical Competency is contained in Figure 13-20.

1) Prepare the Application for an Airman Certificate and/or Rating (FAA 

Form 8400-3). The DADE completes sections 8 and 10 of the form and enters the following 

statement into the “Remarks” section of the form: “APPLICANT IS LESS THAN 23 YEARS 

OF AGE. HOLD APPLICATION. LETTER OF AERONAUTICAL COMPETENCY ISSUED.”

2) Forward Application Package to FAA Managing Specialist. A DADE will 

forward the application package to the FAA managing specialist as soon as practicable, but no 

more than 7 calendar-days from administering the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test, unless 

otherwise specified by the FAA managing specialist. The FAA managing specialist cannot issue 

the Letter of Aeronautical Competency without first reviewing the application package. The 

DADE will forward the following:

• The completed FAA Form 8400-3 with the completed “Remarks” section;

• The original Airman Knowledge Test Report;

• A copy of the written statement of graduation (the applicant retains the 

original) if the applicant has successfully completed an FAA-approved part 65 

Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course; and

• A completed FAA Form 8000-36 (if provided by the managing specialist).

3) Forward the Application Package to AFS-760. The FAA managing specialist 

will forward the following for applicants under the age of 23 as follows:

• The completed FAA Form 8400-3. The “Remarks” section of the form must 

contain the following statement: “APPLICANT IS LESS THAN 23 YEARS 

OF AGE. HOLD APPLICATION. LETTER OF AERONAUTICAL 

COMPETENCY ISSUED;”

• The original Airman Knowledge Test Report;

• A copy of statement of graduation (the applicant retains the original) if the 

applicant has successfully completed an FAA-approved part 65 Aircraft 

Dispatcher Certification Course; and

• A copy of the Letter of Aeronautical Competency.

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DATE DRAFT 8900.1 CHG DADE-65

4) Document Actions in PTRS. The FAA managing specialist will document the 

issuance of the Letter of Aeronautical Competency using PTRS activity code 1513, 

“CERT/AIRM/DISP/LTR COMPTENCY.”

5) Issue a Certificate When the Applicant is at Least 23 Years of Age. Once the 

applicant has reached the age of 23, he or she may go to any Flight Standards District Office

(FSDO) and present the following documents in exchange for a Temporary Airman Certificate:

• The original Letter of Aeronautical Competency;

• Proof of age;

• Any other identification required by paragraph 13-227; and

• An updated FAA Form 8400-3.

a) Letters of Aeronautical Competency do not expire. However, prior to issuing 

a Temporary Airman Certificate in exchange for a Letter of Aeronautical Competency, the 

aviation safety inspector (ASI) issuing the certificate must contact AFS-760 to verify that the 

applicant’s original application is on file. Information on how to contact AFS-760 is located on 

the FAA’s public Web site at

http://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/airmen_certification/contact_airmen_certification.

b) If AFS-760 does not have the original application package, cannot reconstruct 

the application file, or otherwise states that the applicant should not be issued a certificate, the 

ASI can attempt to contact the AFS field office that issued the original Letter of Aeronautical 

Competency to see if that office has the original application package. Otherwise, the ASI will 

instruct the applicant that a Temporary Airman Certificate cannot be issued and that the applicant 

will have to requalify for an Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate in accordance with § 65.57.

c) If AFS-760 indicates that they have reconstructed, or are able to reconstruct,

the original application package, and there is nothing that should otherwise prevent the issuance 

of a Temporary Airman Certificate, the ASI will issue the Temporary Airman Certificate and 

forward the updated application package to AFS-760. The package must contain:

• The completed FAA Form 8400-3,

• A copy of the Letter of Aeronautical Competency, and

• The original copy of FAA Form 8060-4.

13-234 UNSUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS. If, in the judgment of the examiner, the applicant 

does not meet the standards of performance of any task performed, then he or she is considered 

to have failed the associated area of operation and, therefore, has failed the entire Aircraft 

Dispatcher Practical Test. When failure is impending, the examiner will notify the applicant. At 

this point either the examiner or the applicant may discontinue the test. The examiner may only 

continue the test with the consent of the applicant. Continuation of the test when failure is 

impending does not constitute a retest. An examiner must administer a retest separately and on a 

later date, in accordance with § 65.19. The examiner may only credit the applicant for those 

areas of operation and the associated tasks he or she has performed satisfactorily.

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DATE DRAFT 8900.1 CHG DADE-65

A. Record the Results. DADEs will record the results of the practical test on the back of 

FAA Form 8400-3 and document subject areas with a “U” for unsatisfactory. In addition, the 

DADE will list the specific failed areas from the PTS in the “Remarks” section of FAA 

Form 8400-3, in the “Remarks” section of the PTRS data sheet (if provided by the FAA 

managing specialist), and on FAA Form 8060-5. The DADE will enter the date of test 

completion in the “Evaluation Record” section along with a signature and designation number.

NOTE: If the unsuccessful applicant has satisfactorily completed some subject 

areas, the DADE may note the area with an “S” for satisfactory.

B. Return the Original Written Test Report. The DADE will return the original 

written test report to the applicant and instruct the applicant to retain it for future presentation to 

an examiner when retesting.

NOTE: The applicant always retains the original written statement of graduation.

C. Prepare the Notice of Disapproval of Application (FAA Form 8060-5). The 

DADE will complete FAA Form 8060-5 (see Figure 13-21) in duplicate and give the original to 

the applicant. Instructions for completing the form are contained in Volume 5, Chapter 5, Section 

10, paragraph 5-1372, and Volume 5, Chapter 1, Section 6. The DADE will instruct the applicant 

to retain the Notice of Disapproval of Application for future presentation to an examiner when 

retesting.

D. Forward the Application Package to the FAA Managing Specialist. DADEs will 

forward the application to the FAA managing specialist within 7 calendar-days of administering 

the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test, unless otherwise instructed by the specialist. The DADE 

will include:

• The completed FAA Form 8400-3,

• A duplicate of FAA Form 8060-5, and

• The completed FAA Form 8000-36 (if provided by the managing specialist).

E. Forward the Application Package to AFS-760. The FAA managing specialist will 

forward the application package for unsuccessful applicants to AFS-760 and include the 

following documents:

• The completed FAA Form 8400-3, and

• A duplicate of FAA Form 8060-5.

13-235 RETEST AFTER FAILURE. In accordance with § 65.19, an applicant may retest 

after failing the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test:

• Thirty days after the date the applicant failed the test, or

• Before the 30 days have expired if the applicant presents a signed statement from an 

airman who holds an Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate, certifying that the airman has 

given the applicant additional instruction in each of the subjects failed and the airman 

considers the applicant ready for retesting.

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DATE DRAFT 8900.1 CHG DADE-65

A. Application. Each applicant for a retest must complete and sign FAA Form 8400-3.

B. Airman Knowledge Test. Each applicant for a retest must present an original, 

embossed Airman Knowledge Test Report showing satisfactory test results.

C. Statement of Graduation (if Applicable). Each applicant for a retest must present a 

copy of a statement of graduation if he or she has successfully completed an FAA-approved 

Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course.

D. Original Copy of the Notice of Disapproval of Application (FAA Form 8060-5).

Each applicant for a retest must present an original copy of FAA Form 8060-5. The form should 

contain the list of the subjects failed by the applicant; otherwise, the retest must be administered

in its entirety.

E. Time Period for Retest.

1) An applicant may only be retested within the validity period of a statement of 

graduation issued in accordance with § 65.70(b); and

2) An applicant may only be retested within 24 months of having passed the Aircraft 

Dispatcher Knowledge Test (ADX Knowledge Test) in accordance with § 65.55(b).

F. Tasks and Areas to Retest. An applicant may receive credit for those areas of

operation and the associated tasks that have been performed satisfactorily on the previous test,

under the following conditions:

1) Retesting Within 30 Days After the Date of Failure. An examiner 

administering a retest may give the applicant credit for those areas and/or tasks completed 

satisfactorily on the previous test. If testing within 30 days of failure, § 65.19 requires an 

applicant to present a signed statement from an airman who holds an Aircraft Dispatcher 

Certificate. In the statement, the airman must certify that he or she has given the applicant 

additional instruction in each of the areas and/or tasks previously failed by the applicant, and that 

he or she considers the applicant ready for retesting. The certifying statement must include the 

airman’s Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate number. A certifying statement of this nature does not 

relieve an examiner from his or her duty to thoroughly evaluate an applicant. If the examiner 

doubts the applicant’s competency in any area or task, the examiner will retest the applicant in 

any and all areas and tasks the examiner sees fit.

2) Retesting After 30 Days but No More than 60 Days from the Date of Failure.

Examiners should exercise caution when retesting an applicant who is applying for a retest more 

than 30 days after failing the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test. Section 65.19 contains no 

requirement for an applicant to receive additional instruction if he or she applies for a retest 

30 days after he or she failed the test. An examiner administering a retest may give the applicant 

credit for those areas and tasks completed satisfactorily on the previous practical test(s) if the 

retest occurs within 60 calendar-days of the original test. However, an examiner may choose to 

retest an applicant on any and all areas and/or tasks if the examiner doubts the applicant’s 

competence in any area or task he or she previously performed satisfactorily. Whether or not a 

task or area needs to be retested is at the examiner’s discretion.

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DATE DRAFT 8900.1 CHG DADE-65

3) Retesting After 60 days from the Date of Failure. An applicant who desires a 

retest after 60 calendar-days from having failed the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test is not 

entitled to any credit for tasks or areas previously passed. In this case, the examiner must 

administer the entire Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test.

G. Retesting an Applicant who has Qualified for Testing Under the Provisions of 

§ 65.57(a)(4) is Not Permitted. In accordance with subparagraph 13-226E3 of this section, an 

examiner requires prior approval from AFS-200 in order to administer the Aircraft Dispatcher 

Practical test to any applicant who provides documentary evidence in accordance with 

§ 65.57(a), as a means to qualify for testing. If the applicant fails the Aircraft Dispatcher 

Practical Test on the first attempt, AFS-200 will not grant approval to an examiner to administer 

a retest.

H. Forward the Application Package. If the applicant passes the retest, the DADE and 

FAA managing specialist will forward the application package in accordance with the guidance 

contained in this section applicable to successful applicants.

13-236 DISCONTINUATION OF THE PRACTICAL TEST FOR REASONS OTHER 

THAN UNSATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE.

A. Letter of Discontinuance. An examiner will issue a Letter of Discontinuance when 

reasons other than unsatisfactory performance lead to the termination of a practical test. Some 

examples of reasons for discontinuing a test include, but are not limited to:

• Power failure,

• Family emergency,

• Inclement weather, and

• Illness.

NOTE: Poor performance by an applicant is not a valid reason to discontinue a 

test. Poor performance is considered grounds for failure of the Aircraft Dispatcher 

Practical Test.

B. Issue the Letter of Discontinuance. When an examiner discontinues the test for 

reasons other than unsatisfactory performance, he or she will prepare, sign, and issue a Letter of 

Discontinuance to the applicant and return the FAA Form 8400-3, the original Airman 

Knowledge Test Report, and statement of graduation (when applicable) to the applicant. The 

examiner must retain a copy of the Letter of Discontinuance and make it part of an applicant’s 

certification file and the DADE’s designated examiner file. At no time will an examiner issue a 

Letter of Discontinuance in lieu of FAA Form 8060-5 when it appears an applicant may fail any 

portion of the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test. The examiner will identify in the Letter of 

Discontinuance all areas of operation associated tasks successfully completed by the applicant.

The examiner will instruct the applicant to present the Letter of Discontinuance when he or she 

resumes the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test for the purpose of being allowed credit for those 

areas and tasks successfully completed. The applicant should resume the test with the same 

examiner; however, the test may be continued with another examiner (ASI-AD or DADE) if 

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DATE DRAFT 8900.1 CHG DADE-65

circumstances such as continued illness of the previous examiner warrant the use of another 

examiner.

C. Valid Time. A Letter of Discontinuance is valid for no more than 60 days after the 

test is discontinued. After 60 days from the discontinuation and the issuance of the Letter of 

Discontinuation, an applicant is no longer entitled to credit for any areas or tasks previously 

satisfied during the initial test. In addition to the maximum of 60 days valid time of a Letter of 

Discontinuance, examiners must adhere to the following time limits:

• The test must be continued within the validity period of a statement of graduation 

(when issued) in accordance with § 65.70(b); and

• The test must be continued within 24 months of the applicant having passed the 

ADX Knowledge Test in accordance with § 65.55(b).

D. Tasks and Areas to Continue. When continuing an Aircraft Dispatcher Practical 

Test, examiners will credit applicants for the successful completion of the areas of operation and 

associated tasks listed in the Letter of Discontinuance. If an examiner doubts the applicant’s 

knowledge or competence in any given area of operation or task previously satisfied during the 

initial test, the examiner may retest the applicant to the extent the examiner deems necessary. 

When the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test is completed, the examiner will include a copy of 

the Letter of Discontinuance with the application package. (See Volume 5, Chapter 5, 

Section 10, paragraph 5-1374 and Figure 5-139A, for an example of a Letter of Discontinuance.)

13-237 RETENTION OF APPLICATION PACKAGES. The certificate-holding district 

office (CHDO) will retain all aircraft dispatcher certification documentation in accordance with 

the current edition of FAA Order 1350.15, Records Organization, Transfer, and Destruction 

Standards, Chapter 11.

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DATE DRAFT 8900.1 CHG DADE-65

Figure 13-20. Sample Letter of Aeronautical Competency – Successful Applicant of 

Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate Less Than 23 years of Age

[District Office Letterhead]

Letter of Aeronautical Competency

This letter is evidence that:

[Name of Applicant] has successfully completed the required written, 

knowledge, and skill tests for an Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate; however, the applicant has not 

reached 23 years of age. The applicant may obtain a Temporary Airman Certificate (FAA 

Form 8060-4) from any Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) upon presenting the following:

1) Proof of age (23 years old).

2) A current application, FAA Form 8400-3, Application for an Airman Certificate 

and/or Rating.

3) This original letter.

4) Two valid forms of photo identification.

Aviation Safety Inspector Signature:

Aviation Safety Inspector Name (print):

Date:

District Office Number Office Location

___________________ _____________

This Letter of Aeronautical Competency does not expire.

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DATE DRAFT 8900.1 CHG DADE-65

Figure 13-21. FAA Form 8060-5, Notice of Disapproval of Application

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – FEDERAL AVIATION 

ADMINISTRATION

NOTICE OF DISAPPROVAL OF APPLICATION

NOTE

PRESENT THIS FORM

UPON APPLICATION

FOR REEXAMINATION

NAME AND ADDRESS OF APPLICANT CERTIFICATE OR RATING

SOUGHT

On the date shown, you failed the examination indicted below:

FLIGHT ORAL PRACTICAL

AIRCRAFT USED (Make and Model) FLT. TIME RECORDED IN LOGBOOK

PILOT-IN-COMM. 

OR SOLO

INSTRUMENT DUAL

UPON REAPPLICATION YOU WILL BE REEXAMINED IN THE FOLLOWING:

I have personally tested this applicant and deem his or her performance unsatisfactory for the issuance of the 

certificate or rating sought.

DATE OF EXAMINATION SIGNATURE OF EXAMINER OR INSPECTOR DESIGNATION OR

OFFICE NO.

FAA Form 8060-5 (4-82)

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DATE DRAFT 8900.1 CHG DADE-65

Figure 13-22. Sample Letter of Discontinuance

Dear ,

On this date, , you successfully completed a portion of the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical 

Test indicated below:

You have successfully completed the following areas of the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test:

[List successfully completed areas of operation and associated tasks from the PTS.]

The practical test was discontinued because of: [State Reason]

You may present this letter no later than [enter 60 days from the date of the initiation of the test 

(same as date entered at the beginning of the letter)] as proof of your successful completion of 

the areas of operation and associated tasks listed above. After [enter expiration date], you will be 

required to complete the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test in its entirety. This letter does not 

extend the expiration date of your ADX Knowledge Test results or statement of graduation

issued by [enter the name of the FAA-approved part 65 Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course 

if applicable].

Sincerely,

[ASI-AD or DADE] Certificate/Designation Number: 

RESERVED. Paragraphs 13-238 through 13-250.

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