Rules of the Air: PIC Responsibility, Preflight Duties, and Collision Avoidance

010-05-02Pablo Asensio Martínez2026-03-272 min

The Rules of the Air establish the fundamental standards for the safe operation of aircraft.

Responsibility of Pilot-in-Command (PIC)

The PIC is responsible for the operation of the aircraft in accordance with the rules of the air. However, the PIC may depart from these rules in circumstances that render such departure absolutely necessary in the interests of safety (SERA.2010).

The PIC has final authority as to the disposition of the aircraft while in command.

Pre-flight Action

Before beginning a flight, the PIC shall become familiar with all available information appropriate to the intended operation. For flights away from the vicinity of an aerodrome and for all IFR flights, required information includes:

  1. A careful study of available current weather reports and forecasts.
  2. Consideration of fuel requirements.
  3. An alternative course of action if the flight cannot be completed as planned.

Safety and Collision Avoidance

Nothing in the rules relieves the PIC of the responsibility to take action to avoid collisions, including maneuvers based on ACAS/TCAS resolution advisories. Vigilance shall be maintained on board the aircraft regardless of the type of flight or class of airspace.

Territorial Application

The rules of the air apply to aircraft bearing the nationality and registration marks of a Contracting State, wherever they may be, to the extent that they do not conflict with the rules of the State overflown.

  • If an aircraft registered in Europe flies over the USA, the rules of the USA apply.
  • If it flies over the high seas, the rules of ICAO Annex 2 apply.

Psychoactive Substances

No person whose function is critical to the safety of aviation (safety-sensitive personnel) shall undertake that function while under the influence of any psychoactive substance, by reason of which human performance is impaired (alcohol, opioids, sedatives, etc.).