Each time an applicant undertakes a CPL or IR Skill Test it is known as an 'Attempt'. Attempts are grouped into 'Series'. There are two Attempts in each Series. There is no limit to the number of Series that may be taken.
- A pass will be awarded when all sections of the test are passed.
- An applicant failing only one section at the first attempt in a Series shall have gained a partial pass. The second attempt will always require the applicant to retake Section 1 and the section failed at the first attempt.
- A fail will be awarded if more than one section is failed at the first attempt in a Series. A failure of any section of the second attempt will require the applicant to retake the entire test.
- A free retest may be awarded if the applicant discontinues the flight and the reasons for doing so are agreed by the Examiner. The free retest will require only those sections or items not previously flown to be completed; these items must be completed before the result of the flight can be determined. If the applicant terminates the flight test for reasons considered inadequate by the Examiner, he may forfeit the test fee and a further fee will be required before the next test.
Failure to pass all appropriate sections in two attempts in the first Series will conclude that Series.
Before undertaking a further attempt in the next (second) Series the applicant will be required to:
- Complete the retraining prescribed by the Flight Examiner at the completion of the Series and indicated on the Flight Test and report form SRG 2197
- Present their personal flying logbook to the Flight Examiner, containing entries certified by the Chief Flying Instructor (CFI) of the training organisation giving training, indicating that the prescribed training has been completed and that the applicant is fit to retake the Skill Test.
- Present a new Recommendation for Test to Flight Examiner.
If a third test series is required, the UK CAA will review the SRG2197 and designate an examiner for the test. Any further attempts (full or partial) will be conducted in this manner.
Should the applicant fail to pass the second or subsequent series, the examiner will indicate the retraining required and may seek advice from a CAA Staff Examiner.
The second attempt in series two shall, whenever possible, be conducted by a Staff Examiner or an Examiner nominated by the CAA. Retraining will be based upon an assessment of the reasons for failure of all previous attempts.
The retraining hours must be expected to become more severe with continued failure at the test.