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United States Department of Transportation United States Department of Transportation

Can a private pilot, acting as a tow pilot without monetary compensation: 1) log the time that they tow; 2) count the time toward additional ratings or certificates?

  1. Yes, a pilot who is serving as a tow pilot may log the flight time when they are towing.  As stated in FAR Part 61, Section 61.51(e)(1), pilot-in-command flight time may be logged for that flight time during which that person is the sole manipulator of the controls of an aircraft for which the pilot is rated.
  2. There are no rules that would prevent counting that time toward currency or a rating or certificate. As stated in Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 61, Section 61.113(g), a private pilot who meets the requirements of FAR Part 61, Section 61.69, may act as pilot in command of an aircraft towing a glider.