In regard to general privileges and limitations, what may a private pilot do?

• A. Share the operating expenses of a flight with a passenger
• B. Accept payment for services from a passenger
• C. Fly a commercial flight for hire
• D. Act as PIC in any aircraft without restrictions

Answer: (A)

Sharing the operating expenses with a passenger is allowed because a private pilot may not fly for hire, but may split direct flight costs with a passenger on a pro rata basis. The key is that the pilot does not receive any compensation beyond their own share of the costs and the purpose isn’t to conduct a commercial flight. This keeps the flight recreational rather than a paid service.

Accepting payment for services from a passenger would constitute compensation for flying, which private pilots are not allowed to receive. Flying a commercial flight for hire requires a commercial certificate and is outside private-pilot privileges. Acting as PIC in any aircraft without restrictions also isn’t allowed, since private pilots have limitations and cannot operate for hire or outside those privileges.