Towing: Other than under § 91.309

This regulation prohibits towing anything with a civil aircraft unless you meet one of two conditions: either you're conducting a glider tow under § 91.309, or you have a certificate of waiver from the FAA.

In practical terms, § 91.309 covers standard glider and unpowered ultralight towing operations that meet specific requirements. For any other towing activity—such as banner towing, target towing for aerial gunnery practice, or towing anything else—you must obtain an FAA waiver before conducting the operation.

This matters because pilots cannot simply decide to tow banners, targets, or other objects without prior FAA approval. The waiver process ensures the FAA can evaluate the safety of unusual towing operations and impose appropriate conditions. Operating without the required waiver when § 91.309 doesn't apply would be a regulatory violation, even if the towing operation itself seems straightforward.

*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.*