FAR 91.1077 — Training Program Approval
FAR 91.1077 explains how fractional ownership program managers obtain initial and final FAA approval of training programs and required revisions.
In Plain English
FAR 91.1077 lays out how a fractional ownership program manager gets a training program (or a revision to one) approved by the FAA. Approval happens in two stages:
- Initial approval: The program manager submits a curriculum outline with enough detail for the FAA to evaluate it, plus any additional information the Administrator requests. If it meets Subpart K requirements, the FAA grants initial approval in writing, and training may begin under that program.
- Final approval: After observing the program in action, the FAA grants final approval once the manager shows that everyone completing the training is adequately trained to perform their assigned duties.
The FAA can also require revisions to a finally-approved program at any time. The program manager has 30 days to file a petition to reconsider, which normally stays the notice. However, if the Administrator declares a safety emergency, the change takes effect immediately with no stay.
Why it matters: this rule ensures fractional operations train crews to a verified standard before pilots are turned loose on real missions, and gives the FAA ongoing authority to fix problems quickly.
Regulation Text
14 CFR § 91.1077§ 91.1077 Training program and revision: Initial and final approval.
(a) To obtain initial and final approval of a training program, or a revision to an approved training program, each program manager must submit to the Administrator—
(1) An outline of the proposed or revised curriculum, that provides enough information for a preliminary evaluation of the proposed training program or revision; and
(2) Additional relevant information that may be requested by the Administrator.
(b) If the proposed training program or revision complies with this subpart, the Administrator grants initial approval in writing after which the program manager may conduct the training under that program. The Administrator then evaluates the effectiveness of the training program and advises the program manager of deficiencies, if any, that must be corrected.
(c) The Administrator grants final approval of the proposed training program or revision if the program manager shows that the training conducted under the initial approval in paragraph (b) of this section ensures that each person who successfully completes the training is adequately trained to perform that person's assigned duties.
(d) Whenever the Administrator finds that revisions are necessary for the continued adequacy of a training program that has been granted final approval, the program manager must, after notification by the Administrator, make any changes in the program that are found necessary by the Administrator. Within 30 days after the program manager receives the notice, it may file a petition to reconsider the notice with the Administrator. The filing of a petition to reconsider stays the notice pending a decision by the Administrator. However, if the Administrator finds that there is an emergency that requires immediate action in the interest of safety, the Administrator may, upon a statement of the reasons, require a change effective without stay.
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1What must a fractional program manager submit to the FAA to get a training program approved?
Per FAR 91.1077(a), the manager must submit an outline of the proposed or revised curriculum with enough detail for preliminary evaluation, plus any additional information the Administrator requests.
Q2What is the difference between initial and final approval of a training program?
Under FAR 91.1077(b)–(c), initial approval is granted in writing once the program complies with the subpart, allowing training to begin; final approval is granted after the FAA evaluates effectiveness and the manager shows trainees are adequately prepared for their assigned duties.
Q3If the FAA orders revisions to your approved training program, what are your options?
FAR 91.1077(d) allows the program manager to file a petition to reconsider within 30 days, which stays the notice — unless the Administrator finds a safety emergency requiring the change to take effect immediately without stay.
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Related Sections in Part 91