Parachute Requirement for Spin Training
A practical interpretation of FAA legal opinion on when parachutes are required during spin training under §91.307.
Key Conclusion
Parachutes are not required for spin training when conducted by a certificated flight instructor, even if the training is not required for the specific certificate being pursued.
Why It Matters
Common confusion:
- Spin training is not required for some certificates
- Therefore parachutes must be required
The FAA focuses on whether the maneuver is required anywhere in the regulations, not the specific training context.
Core Logic
1. General parachute rule
Parachutes are required when:
- Bank exceeds 60°
- Pitch exceeds ±30°
Unless an exception applies
2. Key exception in §91.307(d)
Exception applies to:
- Spins and maneuvers
- Required for any certificate or rating
- When given by a certificated flight instructor
3. “Any certificate” means exactly that
- It does not matter what certificate the student is pursuing
- If the maneuver is required anywhere in the regulations
4. Spin training qualifies
- Spin training is required for CFI applicants
- Therefore it qualifies as a maneuver required by regulation
5. Student is not a crewmember
- Student pilots are considered passengers, not crewmembers
- Therefore the exception is necessary
Common Misunderstandings
- ❌ “Only required training is exempt”
- ❌ “If the student doesn’t need spins, parachutes are required”
👉 The rule depends on regulatory requirement anywhere, not training intent
One-Sentence Summary
If a maneuver is required for any certificate and given by a CFI, parachutes are not required—even if the student does not need that training.