During cruise flight, a PIC encounters a sudden in-flight emergency requiring an immediate deviation from an ATC clearance and company operating procedures to ensure safety. Under 14 CFR 121.557, what authority does the PIC have, and what follow-up action may be required?
- AThe PIC must land immediately at the nearest airport regardless of conditions, with no other options permitted
- BThe PIC may deviate only from company procedures but never from federal aviation regulations
- CThe PIC may not deviate from any procedure without prior dispatcher approval, even in an emergency
- DThe PIC may deviate from any rule or procedure to the extent required by the emergency, and may be required to submit a written report if requested
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. The PIC may deviate from any rule or procedure to the extent required by the emergency, and may be required to submit a written report if requested
14 CFR 121.557 authorizes the pilot in command, in an emergency requiring immediate decision and action, to deviate from any rule of Subparts B and C of Part 121 or the operations specifications to the extent required to meet that emergency. Under 121.557(b), the certificate holder must, if requested, submit a written report of the deviation to the Administrator.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The rule allows deviation as required by the emergency, not a mandatory immediate landing regardless of circumstances.
- B. The PIC may deviate from federal regulations as well as company procedures under this emergency authority.
- C. Emergency authority is granted without needing prior dispatcher approval in a true emergency.
In-Flight Emergency Authority (121.557)
Regulation granting the PIC authority to deviate from rules and procedures as necessary during an in-flight emergency, subject to later reporting.
- PIC may deviate from Subpart B/C rules and ops specs during an emergency
- Deviation authority is limited to the extent required by the emergency
- A written report may be required to be submitted to the Administrator if requested
Memory trick: 'Emergency erases the rulebook, briefly' — PIC's temporary override power