Public Aircraft Qualification

Determine if your organization qualifies for public aircraft status

Organization

Ownership

Purpose

Result

Step 1: Organization Type

Identify your organization to determine eligibility for public aircraft status under 49 U.S.C. 40102(a)(41).

Organization Name

Organization Type

Law Enforcement

Federal, state, or local police, sheriff, or similar agencies

Fire & Rescue

Fire departments, fire rescue services, wildfire response

Emergency Services

Emergency medical services, disaster response, search and rescue

Other Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government agencies performing governmental functions

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What is Public Aircraft Status?

Public aircraft operations are governmental functions performed by government entities. Under 49 U.S.C. 40125, public aircraft are exempt from many FAA certification requirements but must still operate safely and comply with airspace rules.

This wizard provides guidance only. Always verify requirements with official FAA sources and consult legal counsel for complex determinations.