Pilot in command or second in command: Designation required

This regulation requires program managers (who operate aircraft under subpart K fractional ownership rules) to formally designate who serves as pilot in command (PIC) for each flight, and who serves as second in command when two pilots are required. This designation must be made before the flight begins.

Importantly, once designated, the PIC must remain the PIC for the entire flight—you cannot swap command authority mid-flight even if both pilots are qualified. This differs from some other operations where pilots might trade roles during a flight.

In practice, this means the program manager must have clear procedures for designating crew roles, and the flight crew must understand who has final authority throughout the flight. This designation affects legal responsibility, decision-making authority, and regulatory compliance. The rule ensures there's no ambiguity about who is exercising command authority at any point during the 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.*