Part 61 vs. Part 141 Flight Schools: Which Is Right for You?

If you're researching flight training options, you’ve probably come across the terms Part 61 and Part 141. But what do they mean — and which one is best for you?

✈️ What’s the Difference?

These two parts refer to Federal Aviation Regulations that govern flight training.

• Part 61: More flexible, instructor-led training.

• Part 141: Structured, FAA-approved training curriculum (often used by colleges or big flight schools).

Both lead to the same FAA certificates and ratings — Private, Instrument, Commercial, etc. The main difference is how the training is delivered.

🧭 Why Many Students Choose Part 61

At Clancy Aviation Co., we train under Part 61, and here’s why it works so well for most pilots:

• Flexible scheduling: Train on your time — not a school’s.

• Customized pace: We adapt to how you learn, not the other way around.

• One-on-one instruction: No getting passed between instructors.

• Lower cost: Without the administrative overhead of a 141 school, you save thousands.

Unless you’re enrolling in a university aviation program or using VA benefits, Part 61 is often the more efficient and cost-effective path to your certificate.

✅ The Bottom Line

Part 61 and Part 141 both produce safe, qualified pilots. But if you're looking for flexibility, affordability, and a more personal approach, Part 61 training with a dedicated instructor is often the smarter choice — and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Clancy Aviation Co.