Who has final authority as to the operation of an aircraft?

• A. Pilot in command
• B. Air traffic controller
• C. Owner
• D. Mechanic

Answer: (A)

The Pilot in Command has final authority over the operation of the aircraft. This person is legally responsible for the safety and conduct of the flight and makes all final decisions related to how the aircraft is flown, including decisions about weather, fuel, flight plan, configuration, and whether to take off or continue. Air traffic control can issue instructions to maintain safe separation and orderly traffic, but the PIC must follow those instructions unless doing so would compromise safety; in that case, the PIC may deviate in a safe manner. The owner owns the aircraft and may designate who flies it, and a mechanic ensures airworthiness, but neither overrides the PIC’s authority during a flight.