What would reasonably take to get current to fly general aviation aircraft after many years What would it take to become current? I was a fairly proficient pilot and accumulated around 5000 hours. In 1984, I changed careers and haven't flown since. I was licensed for commercial and instrument operation of airplanes (single and multi-engine). I had an instrument rating and AGI, IGI, CFIA, CFII and I even  got an ATP certificate (although no type ratings and at 74 years old, I don't think that would be usable). I also have an airframe and power plant mechanic certificate.
For 16 years I lived and breathed aviation. I couldn't make a reasonable living at it so I went back to school and switched to computer science. I am  now retired, still in reasonably good health and I am considering getting back into aviation as a hobby.
I know the rules have changed. Airspace categories are different and airplanes have become incredibly more expensive (holy cow). And the avionics make the stuff I was using look like they should be in a museum.
My question is, &quot;What would it take to make me legal to fly?&quot; Could I ever be a safe pilot again?
I am a private pilot and rent old planes, like 73 Cessna 172, with exactly the old instrument panel.
I am a 74 years old retired civil engineer. and fly only VFR.
Here in our airport, Van Nuy, there are many CFI's who would get you up and going in a few hours and will sign you off when you're ready. they charge $30 per hour; and are much younger than our kids.
you would want to look at an airport near an aviation colleges, those kids need hours as CFI. And are very up to date on the latest technologies and what gear is the most reasonable. Like what navigation on which iPad, headsets, what not.