Training course: Contents

This regulation specifies what a Part 141 pilot school must include when submitting a training course for FAA approval. Each course must meet minimum curriculum and training time requirements from the appropriate appendix, unless the school qualifies for reduced-hour approval.

The course outline must describe all training facilities (classrooms, equipment, simulators, aircraft, airports) and include instructor qualifications and a detailed syllabus showing lesson objectives, completion standards, and testing methods.

Schools can request reduced training hours in two stages:

• Initial approval (up to 24 months): Available to schools operating at least 24 months, but students must test with FAA inspectors or independent examiners, not the school's own examiners
• Final approval (permanent): Granted after 24 months of initial approval if the school trained at least 10 students with an 80% first-time pass rate on tests given by FAA inspectors or independent examiners

This allows established schools with proven track records to offer more efficient training programs while maintaining safety standards through independent testing oversight.

*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.*