Change of chief instructor

When a Part 141 pilot school changes its chief instructor, it must immediately notify the FAA Flight Standards office in writing. The school can continue operating for up to 60 days without a chief instructor while searching for a replacement.

During this 60-day period, stage checks and end-of-course tests must be administered by an assistant chief instructor, check instructor, FAA inspector, or examiner—not by regular instructors.

If the school hasn't designated and received approval for a new chief instructor within 60 days, it must stop all training operations and surrender its certificate to the FAA. The school can get its certificate back by designating an approved chief instructor, demonstrating it meets the personnel requirements, and applying for reinstatement using the FAA's prescribed form and process.

This regulation ensures Part 141 schools maintain required supervisory oversight while providing limited flexibility during leadership transitions.

*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.*