What does FAR Part 91 primarily regulate?

FAR Part 91 primarily regulates general operating and flight rules for aircraft. This part of the regulations establishes the baseline for safe flight operations, covering topics such as operations in controlled and uncontrolled airspace, equipment requirements, and pilot responsibilities. It is designed to ensure safety and standardize practices across both general aviation and commercial operations, allowing pilots and operators to understand their responsibilities in various scenarios.

The focus on general operating and flight rules incorporates specific provisions like VFR (Visual Flight Rules) and IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) operations. It also addresses important considerations about altitude, visibility, and right-of-way for aircraft, which are crucial for operational safety.

Understanding the nuances of Part 91 is essential for pilots, as it lays the groundwork for their knowledge of safety practices and requirements. This part complements other sections that deal with aircraft certification, maintenance, and training by establishing the operational context in which those regulations apply.