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2 Answers

Do I need a commercial rating?

Asked by: 1402 views Commercial Pilot, General Aviation

Hi,

i am looking into flying for a drop zone after my PPL and some more training of course. To get my hours up. I don't want to get paid for that I just interested in getting air time. Do I still need a commercial rating? 

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2 Answers



  1. Kris Kortokrax on Sep 04, 2018

    Yes, you do need the commercial certificate. The FAA considers accumulation of flight hours to be compensation. See the Williams interpretation at this link:

    https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/agc/practice_areas/regulations/interpretations/data/interps/2014/williams-larrywilliamsassoc%20-%20(2014)%20legal%20interpretation.pdf

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  2. LTCTerry on Sep 09, 2018

    Kris has answered your question.

    Something many pilots are not aware of is that a private pilot can be compensated for glider towing. This is something the Soaring Society of America worked out with the FAA ~2011.

    You will need at least 100 hours of PIC time and some training at both ends of the tow rope.

    If you are near a glider operation, you might want to ask about this.

    Good luck as you pursue your Private Pilot Certificate!

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