What does FAR Part 61 govern?

FAR Part 61 specifically governs the certification of pilots, flight instructors, and ground instructors, outlining the requirements for the various categories and classes of pilot certificates as well as the associated privileges. This part details the eligibility criteria, training requirements, and testing standards that must be met to obtain and maintain certification.

The other options pertain to different aspects of aviation regulation. Maintenance and operation of aircraft fall under FAR Part 43, which dictates the requirements for maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, and alteration of aircraft. Air traffic control procedures are primarily outlined in FAR Part 91 and additional related regulations. Flight planning and airworthiness standards are covered more comprehensively in other parts, such as FAR Part 91 for general operating and flight rules and FAR Part 23, which relates to airworthiness standards for aircraft. Hence, option A accurately captures the essence of what FAR Part 61 encompasses.