Shared flying is an efficient and economical way for pilots to build flight hours while sharing costs with other aviation enthusiasts. By adhering to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, shared flying ensures compliance with legal requirements while providing a valuable opportunity for pilots to gain experience. Below is a detailed explanation of the FAA’s guidelines for shared flying:
1. Pro Rata Share (14 CFR § 61.113(c))
Under FAA regulations, private pilots may share the operating expenses of a flight with passengers, but they must pay no less than their fair share (pro rata). This ensures that the costs are equitably divided among all occupants of the aircraft.
What counts as operating expenses?
• Fuel and Oil: The cost of powering the aircraft during the flight.
• Airport Fees: Any charges incurred for using airport facilities, such as landing fees or parking.
• Rental Fees: If the aircraft is rented, the rental fee is included in the shared costs.
Pilots must carefully calculate and divide these expenses equally among all participants. The pro rata share rule ensures fairness and prevents any one individual from bearing an unequal financial burden.
2. Common Purpose Requirement
The FAA emphasizes that shared flights must have a common purpose beyond simply building hours. This rule is in place to prevent shared flights from resembling commercial operations, which are subject to entirely different regulations.
Examples of a common purpose:
• Traveling to a specific destination together for a shared goal, such as attending a meeting, event, or family gathering.
• Conducting a round-trip flight where all participants agree on the itinerary and objectives.
Without a clearly defined common purpose, the flight may not qualify under shared flying regulations and could be interpreted as a commercial operation.
3. No Compensation Allowed
Pilots participating in shared flying are prohibited from receiving compensation for their services. This includes direct payment or any form of value exchange that could be interpreted as a reward for piloting the aircraft.
Strict adherence to cost-sharing rules is required:
• Pilots can only share operating expenses as defined by the pro rata rule.
• Any arrangement that provides compensation or a profit to the pilot is not permitted under private pilot privileges.
Failure to comply with this rule could result in severe penalties, including suspension or revocation of the pilot’s certificate.
FAA’s Advisory Circular AC 61-142
For additional guidance, pilots are encouraged to consult the FAA’s Advisory Circular AC 61-142. This document provides detailed explanations and clarifications on cost-sharing rules, ensuring pilots fully understand their responsibilities and limitations. Key highlights include:
• Examples of allowable cost-sharing arrangements.
• Best practices for maintaining compliance with FAA regulations.
• Scenarios that may unintentionally violate the no-compensation rule.
You can access the full advisory circular on the FAA’s official website.
Why Choose Shared Flying?
Shared flying offers several benefits, including:
• Cost Efficiency: Splitting expenses reduces the financial burden for individual pilots.
• Skill Development: Regular flying with different pilots improves teamwork, communication, and overall flying proficiency.
• Networking Opportunities: Collaborating with fellow pilots fosters a sense of community and can lead to valuable connections in the aviation industry.
By following these FAA guidelines, shared flying remains a legal and practical option for time-building pilots. At Airman Flight Training, we ensure that all shared flying activities comply with FAA regulations, providing you with a safe, affordable, and enjoyable way to achieve your aviation goals.
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