Definition
An FAA pilot proficiency program, formally called the FAA Pilot Proficiency Program (WINGS), that encourages pilots to maintain and improve flying skills through ongoing structured training. Participants complete a combination of online knowledge activities and in-aircraft flight tasks at defined skill levels (Basic, Advanced, Master). Completing a phase satisfies the flight review requirement under 14 CFR 61.56.
Plain English
A voluntary FAA program that rewards pilots for keeping their skills sharp through regular training. You earn credit by finishing online lessons and flying specific tasks with an instructor, and finishing a phase counts as your flight review.
Context Anchor
You may see this term in FAA training material, instructor discussions, or when planning ongoing training after a pilot certificate is earned.
Derivation
Named after the 'wings' insignia traditionally awarded to pilots upon qualification. The program uses the symbol to mark continued achievement beyond the initial certificate.
Why Pilots Care
Completing WINGS activities keeps a pilot's flight review valid for an extended period while building real skills and improving safety.
Intuition Check
“Wings” does not mean the airplane’s wings here. It means the FAA’s pilot proficiency program for ongoing training.
Example Sentence 1
She enrolled in the Wings program to stay current and used her completed phase in place of a separate flight review.
Example Sentence 2
She joined the WINGS program to keep her skills current without scheduling a full biennial flight review.