What happens when pilots don't get their flying hours?

The coronavirus pandemic has grounded most of the world's airplanes for the immediate future. But when aviation eventually reboots, pilots will need to be up to speed. It means brushing up on flight-deck skills and ensuring they keep within the boundaries of aviation's stringent safety regulations. And that is presenting a looming challenge as pilots remain housebound. "Pilots require frequent training and 'recency' to be able to fly," says Brian Strutton of the British Airline Pilots Association, or BALPA, which represents the interests of all UK pilots. "Recency" means complying with regulations that stipulate a pilot must have successfully carried out three takeoffs and landings -- one of which using the cockpit's autoland facility -- within the previous 90 days. To qualify for flying both at daytime and night-time, commercial pilots also need to perform three night-time take-offs and landings within the 90 days, which are harder because the pilot has less visual cues. This covers the three daytime take-offs and landings as well.<br/>But there are other annual checks, as well. These include the License Proficiency Check, which a pilot would have to do every year to keep their pilot's license valid. <br/>