Which regulation must be followed for pilot certificates and ratings?

The regulation that governs pilot certificates and ratings is the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). These regulations are established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and are mandatory for all pilots operating within the United States. The FARs provide specific requirements regarding the qualifications necessary to obtain various pilot certificates, such as private, commercial, and airline transport pilot licenses, as well as the associated ratings, like instrument and multi-engine ratings.

The FARs cover everything from eligibility requirements, training protocols, testing standards, currency requirements, and privileges associated with each type of pilot certificate. Adhering to these regulations ensures that pilots maintain safety and competence in their flying abilities, fulfilling the regulatory framework essential for safe aviation operations.

International Aviation Guidelines, while important for international flights, are not the specific regulations governing pilot certificates within the U.S. Similarly, State Aviation Codes may apply to various state-specific aviation operations but do not supersede the FARs for pilot certification. Aviation Safety Bulletins are important for safety alerts but do not establish regulatory requirements related to pilot certifications and ratings.