Flight Schools certified under Part 141 offer more structured method for pilot training, based on FAA syllabus and other standards, than those that operate under Part 61.

There are two types of flight schools catering to primary general aviation needs. One is normally referred to as a certificated “part 141 school” and the other as a “part 61 school.” A part 141 school has been granted an Air Agency Certificate by the FAA. The certificated schools may qualify for a ground school rating and a flight school rating. In addition, the school may be authorized to give their graduates practical (flight) tests and knowledge (computer administered written) tests. AC 140-2HH, FAA Certificated Pilot Schools Directory, lists certificated ground and flight schools and the pilot training courses each school offers. For ordering information, refer to the How to Obtain Study Materials section on page 6 of this guide. Another convenient method is through the Internet at the FAA’s Regulatory and Guidance Library web site.

Enrollment in a certificated school usually ensures quality and continuity of training. These schools meet prescribed standards with respect to equipment, facilities, personnel, and curricula. Many excellent flight schools find it impractical to qualify for the FAA part 141 certificate and are referred to as part 61 schools. One difference between a part 141 school and a part 61 school is that fewer flight hours are required to qualify for a pilot certificate in a part 141 certificated school. The requirement for a private pilot certificate is 40 hours in a part 61 school and 35 hours in a part 141 certificated school. This difference may be insignificant for a private pilot certificate because the national average indicates most pilots require 60 to 75 hours of flight training.