PLT369: Aerobatic Flight Rules
What code PLT369 covers, why the FAA tests it, and how to study Aerobatic Flight Rules before your checkride.
Recall regulations - aerobatic flight requirements
What this means for your checkride
Aerobatic flight, an intentional maneuver with an abrupt change in attitude, an abnormal attitude, or abnormal acceleration, is restricted. It is prohibited over a congested area or an open-air assembly, within the lateral limits of Class B, C, D, or E surface areas designated for an airport, within 4 nautical miles of a Federal airway, below 1,500 feet AGL, or when flight visibility is less than 3 statute miles.
Aerobatics near people, airports, and airways is a hazard, so the FAA tests where and when it is prohibited and the visibility and altitude floors.
Pilots think open country at any altitude is fair game. Even away from people you must stay at or above 1,500 feet AGL with at least 3 SM visibility and clear of airways and controlled surface areas.
Where to study it
A code on your test report is an area of deficiency. An authorized instructor must review it with you and endorse that review before you take the practical test, and the examiner may revisit it during the oral. Study it until you can explain it out loud, not just recognize the answer.