Regulation Text
No person may flight test an aircraft except over open water, or sparsely populated areas, having light air traffic.
The short answer
(14 CFR § 91.305) restricts where flight testing may occur: no person may flight test an aircraft except over open water, or over sparsely populated areas that have light air traffic. The rule limits the location, not the aircraft type.
Research Notes
Common Questions
Where am I allowed to conduct a flight test under § 91.305?
Only over open water, or over sparsely populated areas with light air traffic — those are the only two permitted environments.
“No person may flight test an aircraft except over open water, or sparsely populated areas, having light air traffic.” — 14 CFR § 91.305
Does § 91.305 say I can flight test over a city if traffic is light?
No. The section permits only open water or sparsely populated areas. A populated/urban area is not an authorized flight test location, regardless of air traffic density.
Angle of Attack is an aviation flight-training brand founded by Chris Palmer, a two-time Master Aviation Educator and Gold Seal CFI. We decode the FARs so pilots understand not just the words, but what they mean in the cockpit.
AOA's Decoded pages are plain-English interpretation for training and reference. They are not legal advice and do not replace the official regulation. Always confirm current requirements against the authoritative source before acting.