What is the maximum allowable duration of a duty day?

The maximum allowable duration of a duty day for commercial pilots, including Certified Flight Instructors, is established by regulations which set this limit at 14 hours. This allows pilots to operate an aircraft and fulfill their duties, while also ensuring they are not overworked and can maintain safety and efficiency.

In determining this maximum duty day duration, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) considers several factors, including flight and duty time regulations, to ensure that pilots have adequate rest periods, minimizing fatigue that could impact their performance. Pilots must be aware of their limits, and the 14-hour duty day reflects a balance between operational demands and safety considerations.

While other durations listed exceed the regulatory maximum, they could potentially lead to increased fatigue and decreased performance, which is why they are not allowable under current regulations.