Flight training

This regulation sets instructor qualification and oversight requirements for Part 141 flight schools.

Only certificated flight instructors (or commercial pilots with lighter-than-air ratings) who meet the approved course's minimum qualifications may provide flight training. Before teaching students, instructors must receive a briefing on the course objectives and pass an initial proficiency check in each aircraft they'll use for training. They must then pass a recurrent proficiency check every 12 months in at least one aircraft they use for instruction.

Chief instructors and assistant chief instructors must complete an approved training syllabus or flight instructor refresher course every 12 months to maintain their positions.

Additionally, no student pilot may begin a solo flight from an airport unless a qualified instructor or commercial pilot with lighter-than-air rating is physically present at that airport to approve the flight.

These requirements ensure Part 141 schools maintain standardized instruction quality and provide proper oversight of student solo operations.

*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.*