Restricted category civil aircraft: Operating limitations

Restricted category aircraft are certificated for specific special purposes (like crop dusting, firefighting, or aerial surveying) and can only be operated for those purposes and directly related activities. Related activities include crew training, proficiency flights, and repositioning for maintenance.

You cannot carry passengers or property for hire, except when people or materials are essential to the special purpose operation itself (like carrying spray chemicals for crop dusting). Only specific people may be aboard: flight crew, trainees, or those performing essential functions for the special purpose.

You cannot operate over densely populated areas, congested airways, or near busy passenger airports unless you have a waiver. Small restricted-category airplanes built after July 1978 must have shoulder harnesses at front seats.

Limited deviation authority is available for type rating training and FAA oversight flights, requiring application at least 60 days in advance.

*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.*