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The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 91.321

Carriage of candidates in elections

Read the official rule

This regulation creates an exception allowing aircraft operators to accept payment for flying political candidates without needing commercial operating certificates (Parts 121, 125, or 135).

You can accept payment under Part 91 rules if:

  • Flying candidates isn't your primary business
  • Campaign finance laws *require* the candidate to pay you (they can't receive free flights)
  • Payment doesn't exceed amounts mandated by election law

This matters because campaign finance rules typically prohibit candidates from accepting free transportation as it could constitute an illegal campaign contribution. Without this exception, pilots would need commercial certificates just to fly candidates who are legally required to reimburse them.

The payment amount is capped at what the Federal Election Commission requires for federal races, or whatever state/local law mandates for those elections. This lets private pilots and aircraft owners legally transport candidates while ensuring compliance with both aviation and campaign finance regulations.

*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.*

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 20, 2026.