What should pilots do regarding their instrument approach logs within the 12 calendar months timeframe?

Pilots must focus on ensuring they meet currency requirements regarding their instrument approach logs within a 12-calendar-month timeframe. This is essential because maintaining instrument currency is a regulatory requirement for pilots who wish to operate under instrument flight rules (IFR). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations specify that to act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft under IFR, a pilot must have completed a certain number of instrument approaches and meet other criteria within the previous 12 months.

Logging and tracking these approaches is critical for verifying compliance with these currency requirements, as well as for personal habit and flight proficiency. Keeping accurate and up-to-date approach logs helps pilots review and maintain their skills, ensuring they can safely conduct instrument approaches when needed.