Regulation Text
No pilot of a civil aircraft may tow anything with that aircraft (other than under § 91.309) except in accordance with the terms of a certificate of waiver issued by the Administrator.
Research Notes
Section 91.311 — Towing: Other than under § 91.309 — covers all towing operations that don't fit the glider/ultralight category. This catches banner towing, balloon towing, and various aerial sign/advertising operations.
Authorization requirement: No pilot of a civil aircraft may tow anything with that aircraft (other than a glider/ultralight under § 91.309) without authorization from the FAA. The authorization is typically a Certificate of Waiver (Form 7711-2) for banner-tow operations or other specific commercial towing.
Banner-tow operations: A specialized commercial niche. Operators conduct banner-tow ops under § 91.311 authorization with specific procedures for pickup (low-level maneuvering to engage the banner with a hook), towing (typically at low altitude over the target audience), and release. Insurance and authorization requirements are stringent.
Banner pickup operations: The pickup involves flying low and slow to engage a ground-mounted banner. This is one of the highest-risk operational profiles in civilian aviation and is restricted to qualified pilots with specific training and currency.
Reference: FAA Order 8900.1 Volume 5, Chapter 7 on inspector guidance for banner tow Certificate of Waiver issuance.
Amendment History
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