Definition
The set of regulations in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) that govern how aircraft are flown and how flight operations are conducted in the United States. The most commonly referenced parts for general aviation are 14 CFR Part 91 (general operating and flight rules), with additional parts covering commercial operations such as Part 121 (scheduled airline operations), Part 135 (commuter and on-demand operations), and Part 137 (agricultural aircraft operations).
Plain English
The federal rules that tell pilots how they are allowed to fly — what they can do, what they must do, and what is prohibited during a flight.
Context Anchor
Seen in FAA handbook and regulation discussions about pilot responsibilities, aircraft equipment, airspace, weather, and flight conduct.
Why Pilots Care
Compliance prevents regulatory violations, certificate actions, and unsafe operations by ensuring every flight meets minimum legal and safety standards.
Intuition Check
Do not read operating rules as general advice or helpful tips. In this FAA context, operating rules are requirements a pilot is expected to know and follow.
Example Sentence 1
Before her first solo cross-country, the student reviewed the Part 91 operating rules covering fuel reserves and weather minimums.
Example Sentence 2
Different operating rules apply when flying at night versus during the day.