Aircraft

This regulation sets aircraft requirements for FAA-certificated pilot schools.

For schools in the U.S.: Training aircraft must be U.S.-registered civil aircraft with standard, primary, or light-sport airworthiness certificates. They must be maintained under Part 91 Subpart E rules (the same as aircraft operated for hire), have dual controls that both pilot stations can easily reach and operate, and be IFR-equipped if used for IFR training courses.

For schools outside the U.S.: The requirements are similar but more flexible—aircraft can be either U.S. or foreign-registered, and foreign airworthiness certificates and maintenance standards may be acceptable if equivalent to U.S. requirements.

The dual-control requirement only applies to flight training aircraft, not solo flights. For basic instrument training (control and precision maneuvering), aircraft may use simplified equipment as specified in the school's approved training course, rather than full IFR certification.

*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.*