Register

To Go Part 61 or Part 141?

Flight training with a Curtiss JN-4 Canuck. Wikimedia
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Part 61 flight training offers flexibility, allowing any FAA-approved instructor to teach, whereas Part 141 training requires enrollment in an FAA-approved school with structured, FAA-audited curricula and minimum pass rates.
  • Despite their operational differences, both Part 61 and Part 141 training methods prepare students to meet the identical FAA Airman Certification Standards required for pilot certification.
  • The best choice between Part 61 and Part 141 depends on a student's schedule, learning style, and long-term goals, with Part 141 often better suited for full-time, career-focused students due to its rigorous structure, and Part 61 offering more adaptability.
See a mistake? Contact us.

One of the most basic questions any potential flight student has is what kind of school to attend. Some schools advertise their “Part 141” status, but exactly what that means is rarely clarified. The new Airman Certification Standards updated in June 2018 for the private pilot certificate make the choice even more nuanced, as more detailed expectations as to what is required for the certificate drive training at both types of schools.

FLYING Staff

FLYING Magazine is a one-stop resource for everything aviation, including news, training, aircraft, gear, careers, photos, videos, and more.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE