Plain English Meaning

These are the FAA-issued cards that show a person is legally allowed to fly an aircraft, instruct, or perform certain aviation jobs. The certificate tells you who the person is, what they’re allowed to do, and any limits on what they can do.

Full Definition

Official documents issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that authorize a person to act as a pilot, flight instructor, mechanic, or other aviation professional in specific roles and at specific privilege levels. Each certificate identifies the holder, the type of certification (such as student, private, commercial, or airline transport), and any associated ratings, endorsements, and limitations.

Context Anchor

Seen in discussions of pilot qualification, , and whether a person is legally allowed to the authority granted by an FAA certificate.