Definition
A specific regulation in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 61, Section 61.123, paragraph (c), which sets out one of the eligibility requirements for a commercial pilot certificate: the applicant must be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.
Plain English
This is the rule that says anyone applying for a commercial pilot certificate must be able to use English well enough to read it, speak it, write it, and understand it.
Context Anchor
Seen in flight instructor endorsement lists, especially when identifying the required endorsement for a commercial pilot knowledge test.
Derivation
‘14 CFR’ means Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations — the section of U.S. federal law dealing with aeronautics and space. ‘Part 61’ covers the certification of pilots, flight instructors, and ground instructors. ‘Section 61.123’ lists the eligibility requirements for a commercial pilot certificate, and ‘(c)’ is the specific paragraph dealing with the English-language requirement.
Why Pilots Care
It ensures students meet documented training standards before attempting the commercial practical test, supporting safe and legal progression to higher certificates.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as just a random legal citation. In this context, it points to a specific endorsement requirement: the instructor sign-off for a commercial pilot knowledge test.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor’s endorsement stated that the applicant met the requirements of 14 CFR part 61 section 61.123(c).
Example Sentence 2
Reviewing 14 CFR part 61 section 61.123(c) helped the instructor decide the student was ready for the commercial checkride.