Definition
A standardized verbal statement used during a positive three-step exchange of flight controls between two pilots, in which the pilot currently flying formally transfers control of the aircraft to the other pilot. It is the second step in the FAA-recommended exchange sequence: the pilot wishing to hand over control says 'You have the flight controls,' the receiving pilot replies 'I have the flight controls,' and the original pilot confirms with 'You have the flight controls.' The phrase is normally accompanied by a visual check that the other pilot has placed hands and feet on the controls.
Plain English
It is the exact phrase a pilot says to clearly hand over control of the aircraft to the other pilot, so there is no doubt about who is flying.
Context Anchor
Used during flight training, dual instruction, or any flight with more than one qualified person able to control the aircraft.
Why Pilots Care
Eliminates any doubt about who is flying and prevents loss of aircraft control.
Analogy
It is like handing someone the steering wheel and saying clearly, “You drive now,” instead of assuming they know you let go.
Intuition Check
Do not treat this as casual conversation. In flight training, it is a formal transfer of control. If someone says, “You have the flight controls,” the other person should answer clearly, usually with “I have the flight controls.”
Example Sentence 1
Approaching the practice area, the instructor said, 'You have the flight controls,' and the student replied, 'I have the flight controls,' before the instructor confirmed, 'You have the flight controls.'
Example Sentence 2
After demonstrating a steep turn, the instructor said, "You have the flight controls," and the student resumed flying.