US-FAA14 CFR 91.111
Operating near other aircraft
Read the official ruleIn plain English
You may not operate so close to another aircraft as to create a collision hazard, and you may not fly in formation except by arrangement with the other pilots. Formation flight for hire carrying passengers is prohibited.
Key points
- Keep a safe distance — no creating a collision hazard.
- Formation flight only by prior arrangement among the pilots.
- No formation flight with passengers for compensation or hire.
Common pitfalls
- Drifting too close while sightseeing or photographing another aircraft.
*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation.*
This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 7, 2026.