14 CFR Part 91 · Subpart A · General
14 CFR 91.3: Pilot in command authority
The pilot in command is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to, the operation of the aircraft. In an in-flight emergency that needs immediate action, the pilot may deviate from any Part 91 rule as far as the emergency requires.
Section last amended December 30, 2016 · Text current as of October 15, 2026 · Also cited as FAR 91.3 · Read it on eCFR
14 CFR 91.3 in plain English
Common questions
- Does declaring an emergency mean an automatic violation?
- No. Paragraph (b) authorizes the deviation the emergency requires. The FAA may ask for a written report under (c).
Official text of 14 CFR 91.3
§ 91.3 Responsibility and authority of the pilot in command. Verbatim from the eCFR, current as of October 15, 2026.
(a)The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to, the operation of that aircraft.
(b)In an in-flight emergency requiring immediate action, the pilot in command may deviate from any rule of this part to the extent required to meet that emergency.
(c)Each pilot in command who deviates from a rule under paragraph (b) of this section shall, upon the request of the Administrator, send a written report of that deviation to the Administrator.