Regulation Text
§ 61.301 What is the purpose of this subpart and to whom does it apply?
(a) This subpart prescribes the following requirements that apply to a sport pilot certificate:
(1) Eligibility.
(2) Aeronautical knowledge.
(3) Flight proficiency.
(4) Aeronautical experience.
(5) Endorsements.
(6) Privileges and limits.
(b) Other provisions of this part apply to the logging of flight time and testing.
(c) This subpart applies to applicants for, and holders of, sport pilot certificates. It also applies to holders of recreational pilot certificates and higher, as provided in § 61.303.
[Docket FAA-2001-11133, 69 FR 44869, July 27, 2004, as amended by Amdt. 61-125, 75 FR 5221, Feb. 1, 2010]
The short answer
(14 CFR § 61.301) sets the scope of the sport pilot subpart. It prescribes the eligibility, aeronautical knowledge, flight proficiency, aeronautical experience, endorsement, and privilege-and-limit requirements for a sport pilot certificate, and applies to applicants for and holders of that certificate.
Research Notes
Common Questions
What does the sport pilot subpart actually cover?
It lists six requirement areas for the sport pilot certificate. The rule states:
“This subpart prescribes the following requirements that apply to a sport pilot certificate: (1) Eligibility. (2) Aeronautical knowledge. (3) Flight proficiency. (4) Aeronautical experience. (5) Endorsements. (6) Privileges and limits.” — 14 CFR § 61.301(a)
Does this subpart apply to pilots who already hold a higher certificate?
Yes. Paragraph (c) states it applies to applicants for and holders of sport pilot certificates, and “also applies to holders of recreational pilot certificates and higher, as provided in § 61.303.” Logging of flight time and testing are governed by other provisions of Part 61 per paragraph (b).
Amendment History
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