Legal Definitions - Federal Aviation Regulation

A Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) is a rule established by the United States government, specifically the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), to govern all aspects of civil aviation within the U.S. These regulations are designed to ensure the safety, maintenance, and proper operation of non-military aircraft, as well as the licensing and conduct of pilots, air traffic controllers, and other aviation personnel. They cover a wide range of topics, from aircraft design and manufacturing standards to flight procedures and airspace management.

• Example 1: An airline discovers a minor crack in a specific structural component of one of its passenger jets during a routine inspection. Federal Aviation Regulations dictate the precise repair procedures, the type of materials that must be used, and the qualifications of the technicians authorized to perform such repairs. The airline cannot simply patch the crack; it must follow the detailed instructions outlined in the FARs to ensure the aircraft's continued airworthiness and safety for future flights.

  Explanation: This example illustrates how FARs establish strict standards for aircraft maintenance and repair, ensuring that all civil aircraft meet rigorous safety requirements throughout their operational life.

• Example 2: A student pilot is preparing for their private pilot license checkride. Before they can legally fly solo or carry passengers, they must demonstrate proficiency in specific maneuvers, accumulate a minimum number of flight hours, and pass both a written exam and a practical flight test. All these requirements, including the content of the exams and the flight experience needed, are meticulously detailed within the Federal Aviation Regulations.

  Explanation: This demonstrates how FARs govern pilot training, licensing, and certification, ensuring that anyone operating an aircraft possesses the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to do so safely.

• Example 3: A company plans to use a drone to inspect a large construction site located within five miles of a regional airport. Before launching the drone, the company must consult the Federal Aviation Regulations regarding unmanned aircraft systems. These regulations specify altitude limits, requirements for obtaining airspace authorizations from air traffic control, and rules about operating near airports to prevent any potential conflict with manned aircraft.

  Explanation: This example shows how FARs regulate airspace usage and operational procedures for various types of aircraft, including drones, to maintain order and safety in the national airspace system and prevent collisions.