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AA.I.E.K9FAA-S-ACS-11A · Nov 2023Knowledge

Operational control.

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Operational control.

Bottom line

Operational control is the exercise of authority over initiating, conducting, or terminating a flight. In domestic and flag operations, the aircraft dispatcher and PIC exercise joint responsibility for the preflight planning, delay, and dispatch release of a flight.

FAA references

  1. AC 120-101 Appendix 4 — AC No: 120-101
  2. 14 CFR 121.533 (Responsibility for operational control: Domestic operations.) — eCFR current as of 2026-10-01
  3. 14 CFR 121.537 (Responsibility for operational control: Supplemental operations.) — eCFR current as of 2026-10-01
  4. 14 CFR 121.535 (Responsibility for operational control: Flag operations.) — eCFR current as of 2026-10-01
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