So, Part 141 or Part 61?
The answer is, it depends! Hopefully after you read further you can make the best choice that fits your flight training needs.
First off, both have set standards set by the FAA which an applicant must meet to receive their license. These standards are listed under the ACS (Airman Certification Standards). Both are also taught by FAA Certified Flight Instructors.
The differences lie in structure and format of the courses. One may hear Part 61 referred to as the, “Wild West.” It is referred in this way since the structure is less stringent and more flexible than Part 141. One may self-study and use virtually and flight instructor. For a school to become Part 141 they must prepare a curriculum and then have it approved by the FAA. The FAA can also drop in any time and make sure the school is adhering to their curriculum. If not, the program can be shut down temporarily or permanently with multiple offenses.
So why would a school go through all this trouble to get a 141 Certificate? If offers more to their perspective clients is the short answer. Part 141 for the most part allows students to supplement more ground school course time in lieu of less flying time. For example, a commercial applicant can apply to take their Commercial Check Ride with only 120 flight hours (Appendix (D) (1)). Where as an applicant under Part 61 will need 250 (FAR 61.129) hours flight time to take their exam.
Here is a list of pros and cons to each option,
Part 141
Pros: Cons:
- Finish ratings faster - Taught at larger schools or academies
- Offer Visas - Higher costs
- Offer loans and financial assistance - Less one on one time with instructor
- Possible employment after training
Part 61
Pros: Cons:
- Flexible to student needs - Don’t always offer Visas
- Gain more flight time - Higher hour requirements for ratings
- More one on one time with instructor - Don’t always offer financial assistance
- Self Study