Carriage of narcotic drugs, marijuana, and depressant or stimulant drugs or substances

This regulation holds Part 141 flight schools accountable if they knowingly allow their aircraft to be used for drug trafficking. It references § 91.19(a), which prohibits operating aircraft to carry narcotic drugs, marijuana, or certain other controlled substances except when authorized by law (such as for medical or research purposes).

The key word is "knows"—the school must be aware that illegal drug transportation is occurring. If a Part 141 certificate holder knowingly permits any aircraft they own or lease to be used in violation of the drug carriage prohibition, the FAA can suspend or revoke their operating certificate.

In practice, this means flight schools must exercise reasonable oversight of how their aircraft are used and take action if they become aware of illegal drug operations. This regulation protects the school's certificate by making clear that willful involvement in drug trafficking will result in serious consequences, potentially shutting down the entire training operation.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*