Authorised flight examiner
Learn about the requirements and application process to become an Authorised Flight Examiner.
Last updated 7 May 2026
To ensure Singapore pilot licence holders are competent, flight tests are regularly conducted. CAAS may appoint Authorised Flight Examiners (AFEs) to carry out these flight tests.
There are 2 categories of AFEs:
Authorised Flight Examiners (AFEs)
They conduct flight tests on behalf of CAAS to assess pilots. Examples of tests include:Aircraft Rating test
Instrument Rating test
Flying Instructor Rating test
Senior Authorised Flight Examiners (SAFEs)
They conduct surveillance checks on AFEs to ensure they are competent in conducting flight tests.
All SAFEs are also concurrently appointed as AFEs and carry out AFE duties.
Application process
How to qualify for AFE
To qualify, you must meet all the requirements in Singapore Air Safety Publication (SASP) Part 7.
For instance, you must:
be nominated by a Singapore-based organisation that requires you to conduct the tests (e.g. air operators, training organisations approved by CAAS, and flying clubs)
hold a Singapore pilot licence with a rating that matches the qualification you will be assessing
hold a Flying Instructor (FI) rating that matches the aircraft type or group that you will be assessing
complete the prescribed AFE briefing and training
pass the AFE Check before appointment
How to qualify for SAFE
To qualify, you must meet all the criteria under SASP Part 7.
For instance, you must:
have served as an AFE for at least 4 consecutive years
hold a current AFE authorisation at the point of application
pass an interview with CAAS
pass the SAFE Check conducted by a CAAS inspector
When to apply
You can apply only when your organisation requires you to be authorised as an AFE/SAFE.
Appointments and reappointments are granted at the discretion of CAAS based on the criteria in the SASP Part 7.
What are the required documents
The required documents are listed in the application forms:
They include:
a copy of your Singapore pilot licence and Flying Instructor (FI) rating
nomination letter from your organisation supporting the need for you to be appointed as an AFE
a record of tests/checks you conducted or observed to show your experience (for reauthorisation)
training and attendance certificates to show you completed the compulsory briefings and training
What are the fees
You do not need to pay any fees to apply for AFE or SAFE.
What is the processing time
Complete applications take about 7 working days to process. Incomplete applications may take more time.
How to apply
Ensure you meet all the criteria stated in the SASP Part 7.
Download and complete the relevant application form:
Prepare the required documents listed in the application forms.
Submit the completed application form, along with the required documents, to CAAS_PEL_FCL@caas.gov.sg.
Upon successful application, you will receive a certificate of authorisation from CAAS.
Application for Authorised Flight Examiner
What is the authorisation period
The authorisation period is stated on the certificate synced to the validity of your FI rating (which is up to 24 months).
You remain authorised unless the authorisation is cancelled or revoked.
To reauthorise, you must:
meet the criteria for reauthorisation under SASP Part 7 (e.g. conduct at least 1 test per year and complete AFE Check not more than 6 months before renewal)
submit your application for reappointment at least 1 week before the end of the authorisation period
What are the conditions
As an AFE/SAFE, you must:
continue to comply with the requirements under SASP Part 7
conduct only the tests stated in your authorisation
To conduct additional tests or cover different aircraft types/groups, you must apply for approval from CAAS.
Legislation, regulations and resources
Contact information
AFE, SAFE and Flight crew licensing
Personnel Licensing, Flight Standards Division
CAAS_PEL_FCL@caas.gov.sg
CAPELS Helpdesk
CAAS Personnel Licensing e-System
CAAS_CAPELS_Helpdesk@caas.gov.sg