Definition
A section of the Federal Aviation Regulations that governs the certification and operation of FAA-approved training centers. These centers use structured, often simulator-based curricula approved by the FAA to train pilots and other crewmembers, typically for advanced ratings, type ratings, and recurrent training.
Plain English
A specific FAA rule that sets the standards for certified training centers — the kind of schools that use approved courses and simulators to train pilots, especially for higher-level certificates and aircraft type ratings.
Context Anchor
You may see this term when comparing sources of flight training, especially schools or centers that offer structured FAA-approved courses or simulator-based training.
Derivation
CFR stands for Code of Federal Regulations, the official collection of U.S. government rules. Title 14 covers aeronautics and space, and within it each Part covers a specific topic. Part 142 is the part dealing with training centers.
Why Pilots Care
Training at a Part 142 center provides standardized curricula, approved simulators, and records that are recognized by the FAA and often accepted by airlines.
Intuition Check
Do not read “part” here as a physical piece of something. In FAA rules, a “part” is a numbered section of the regulations.
Example Sentence 1
After being hired by the airline, she completed her type rating at a 14 CFR part 142 training center using full-motion simulators.
Example Sentence 2
Part 142 centers must maintain FAA-approved course outlines and qualified instructors for all training they provide.