What endorsements are required to be given for a CFI initial checkride? (It seems unclear what the exact answer is and ultimately up to the DPE)
First of all, 61-65H contains 2 endorsements which do not seem to be required:
A.41 Fundamentals of instructing knowledge test: § 61.183(d).
A.42 Flight instructor aeronautical knowledge test: § 61.183(f).
per the FAA Airmen Knowledge Testing Matrix The Flight Instructor Airplane and Fundamentals of Instruction, "Requires NO instructor endorsement or other form of written authorization"
AC 61-65H lists roughly 4 to 6 endorsements required for initial CFI:
A.1 61.39(a)(6)(i) and (ii) Training time in 2 calendar months previous
A.2 61.39(a)(6)(iii) Knowledge Test Deficiencies
A.41 Fundamentals of instructing knowledge test: § 61.183(d). see above testing matrix contradiction
A.42 Flight instructor aeronautical knowledge test: § 61.183(f). see above testing matrix contradiction
A.43 Flight instructor ground and flight proficiency/practical test: § 61.183(g). This references required training of § 61.187(b).
A.45 Spin training: § 61.183(i)(1).
The DPE I spoke with said he also wanted to see a statement or endorsement of the 4 items listed in the PTS under Flight Instructor Responsibility. He said the A.41 endorsement above was required, but not the A.42 based on the FAR. I read the FAR, and I think it's already covered by 61.187(b).
The FAA has a document which lists Initial Flight Instructor Endorsements five endorsements which includes a self endorsement. The CFI Academy seems to agree with the FAA's list, however there's a great comment which points out that 61.195(i) that “A flight instructor shall not make any self-endorsement...
In summary, what do you guys say? What endorsements are required for CFIA initial?