FAA Sport Pilot Airplane (SPA)RegulationsMedium
While en route, a pilot observes another aircraft that is clearly in distress and broadcasting an emergency. According to 14 CFR 91.113, which aircraft has the right-of-way?
- AThe aircraft in distress has the right-of-way over all other air traffic
- BThe faster of the two aircraft
- CWhichever aircraft is to the other's right
- DThe aircraft with less remaining fuel
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The aircraft in distress has the right-of-way over all other air traffic
14 CFR 91.113(c) specifically states that an aircraft in distress has the right-of-way over all other air traffic, overriding the normal category-based right-of-way rules.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Speed does not factor into right-of-way rules.
- C. The 'to the right' rule applies to converging aircraft, not distress situations.
- D. Fuel state is not a right-of-way criterion.
Right-of-Way: Aircraft in Distress
An aircraft in distress has the right-of-way over all other air traffic under 14 CFR 91.113(c).
- Distress overrides all category-based right-of-way rules
- Applies to any aircraft declaring an emergency
- Other right-of-way rules apply in order: balloons, gliders, airships, airplanes/rotorcraft
Memory trick: 'Distress trumps the rest.'