14 CFR · Part 91
14 CFR § 91.3
Responsibility and authority of the pilot in command.
In Brief
What It Is
The rule that makes the pilot in command the final authority for the aircraft, with the power to deviate from any rule in an in-flight emergency.
Why It Matters
It is the backbone of PIC authority and the source of the "do what the emergency requires, then explain it if asked" principle every checkride probes.
FlightPush summary.
The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to, the operation of that aircraft.
In an in-flight emergency requiring immediate action, the pilot in command may deviate from any rule of this part to the extent required to meet that emergency.
Each pilot in command who deviates from a rule under paragraph (b) of this section shall, upon the request of the Administrator, send a written report of that deviation to the Administrator.
Referenced By
Interpretations of This Section (11)
Advisory Circulars (5)
Safety Alerts for Operators (SAFO) (1)
Documents that cite this section, found in their catalog metadata or text. Listed by date, not by significance.
Reflects the eCFR edition current as of July 6, 2026. Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.
Primary Source