Right-of-way rules: Except water operations

In plain English

These are the "rules of the road" for avoiding collisions. An aircraft in distress has the right of way over all other traffic. When two aircraft converge, the less maneuverable one generally has the right of way; when approaching head-on, both turn right; and an overtaking aircraft must give way and pass on the right.

Key points

• Distress first; then a category order (balloon, glider, airship, airplane/rotorcraft), with aircraft towing or refueling near the top.
• Head-on: both pilots alter course to the right.
• Overtaking: the aircraft being overtaken has the right of way; pass on its right.
• Landing aircraft have right of way over those in flight or on the surface — but may not cut in front of another on final.

Common pitfalls

• "Right of way" never excuses failing to see and avoid.
• Forgetting that you still must give way even when you technically have the right of way if a collision would otherwise occur.

*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.*