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PAO Pilot Certification

AIM ¶ 11-5-2 — PAO Pilot Certification

AIM 11-5-2 explains pilot certification and training requirements for Public Aircraft Operations (PAOs), including agency self-certification per AC 00-1.1.

In Plain English

AIM 11-5-2 addresses how pilots are certified when flying under Public Aircraft Operations (PAOs) — flights conducted by government entities (federal, state, tribal, or local) for governmental functions rather than civil purposes.

Key points to understand:

  • The operating agency is responsible for training its own pilots when conducting PAOs.
  • The agency self-certifies that its pilots are competent to operate safely in the National Airspace System (NAS).
  • The FAA does not issue a separate "public aircraft" pilot certificate — competency is determined by the agency itself.
  • For detailed guidance and best practices, the AIM points pilots and operators to Advisory Circular (AC) 00-1.1, Public Aircraft Operations—Manned and Unmanned.

Why it matters operationally: If you fly for a law enforcement agency, fire service, military contractor, or other public entity, your training and qualification pathway may differ from a civil Part 91 or Part 135 operation. You still must operate safely in the NAS, but the certification framework is internal to the agency. This is guidance, not a regulation — the actual legal definition of public aircraft is in 49 USC §40102 and §40125.

AIM Source Text
FAA AIM ¶ 11-5-2
11-5-2. 11-5-2. Pilot Certification and Requirements for Public Aircraft Operations (PAOs) When operating as a PAO, the operator is required to train and the agency will self-certify pilots as competent to safely operate in the NAS. For more information and best practices on pilot certification and training within the framework of a PAO, refer to AC 00-1.1, Public Aircraft Operations—Manned and Unmanned. REFERENCE- AC 00-1.1, Public Aircraft Operations—Manned and Unmanned.
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1Who is responsible for certifying pilots conducting Public Aircraft Operations?
Per AIM 11-5-2, the operating agency itself is required to train and self-certify its pilots as competent to safely operate in the National Airspace System when conducting PAOs.
Q2Where can a pilot find best practices and guidance on pilot training and certification for PAOs?
Per AIM 11-5-2, pilots should refer to AC 00-1.1, Public Aircraft Operations—Manned and Unmanned, for more information and best practices on pilot certification and training within the PAO framework.
Q3Does the FAA issue pilot certificates specifically for Public Aircraft Operations?
No. Per AIM 11-5-2, the operating agency self-certifies its pilots as competent for safe NAS operations; the FAA does not issue a dedicated PAO pilot certificate. Operators should consult AC 00-1.1 for guidance.
Related Paragraphs in AIM Chapter 11
11-5-1
UAS Pilot Certification
11-5-3
UAS Pilot Certification
11-5-4
Foreign Pilot UAS Certification
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AIM 11-5-2 — Pilot Certification for PAOs