If an individual is looking into pilot training, he might have probably heard of part 61 and Part 141. Both types of flight instruction are legitimate methods to train pilots but have specific differences. According to the FAA, flight training schools can operate under either. However, the instructional style of Part 61 and Part 141 differs, and knowing particular distinctions can help a person make an informed decision. This article explains Part 61 and Part 141 and the differences between them.
What is the Part 61?
Part 61 specifies the regulations for certification for pilots, ground instructors, and flight instructors. It regulates different types of licenses for eligible candidates and establishes flight time and aeronautical knowledge requirements.
What is the Part 141?
Part 141 specifies the regulations to be followed by the pilot schools. This part mandates pilot schools to seek and maintain FAA approval for their pilot training program and syllabus to create a more structured flight training environment.
Part 61 vs. Part 141
A student can find flight training of the same quality by enrolling at flight schools regulated by Part 61 and Part 141. However, both these programs offer different experiences in terms of instructional style, flexibility, training time, flight time, cost, and other factors.
- Flexibility
Part 61 offers a more flexible training program. For instance, trainees might be attending part-time due to their schedules. Now that the environment at Part 61 flight schools is less structured, the training program can be easily modified to meet students’ needs. On the other hand, Part 141 flight schools offer the courses that one would take in college. The environment is rigorous and, thus, requires full-time attention.
- Training
The pilot training in Part 141 is more formal and regulated than Part 61 flight training. The FAA must approve the training curriculum and syllabus, and part 141 also requires certified instructors and stage checks. Students are mandated to pass stage checks to continue studying the course.
However, Part 61 doesn’t mandate flight schools to have an FAA-approved curriculum. Moreover, the specifics of the training can be determined and modified by the instructor.
- Training Time
Generally, the length of time is set for a Part 141 flight training class. It’s a formal course that requires students to start and finish the course together. Talking about Part 61, it involves a direct iteration between the pilot and the instructor. It means that the length of flight training will vary depending on how often students are available and how quickly they learn.
- Flight Time
Part 61 requires 250 hours of Commercial Pilot License and 40 hours of Private Pilot License. Whereas Part 141 requires 190 hours of Commercial Pilot License and 35 hours of Private Pilot License.
Conclusion
Both Part 61 and Part 141 have their characteristics and pros. It depends on an individual’s goals and how much time he is willing to commit to flight training. Part 141 flight training school will be the right choice if one desires to be a commercial pilot. However, if a person is interested in flying as a hobby, he should prefer Part 61.
