SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hame-ship-aircraft-approval

Who must approve an amateur station operating aboard a ship or aircraft?

The master of the ship or pilot in command of the aircraft.

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  1. The nearest FCC field office
  2. The harbor or airport authority
  3. The ship's master or the aircraft's pilot in command ✔

Why: Rule 97.11(a) says a station aboard a ship or aircraft must be approved by the master of the ship or the pilot in command. The captain is responsible for the vessel and its safety.

Huh, didn't know that: Under rule 97.11(c), an amateur station on an aircraft may not be used while the aircraft is flying IFR unless it meets FAA rules.

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References

Answer: The ship's master or the aircraft's pilot in command. Rule 97.11(a) says a station aboard a ship or aircraft must be approved by the master of the ship or the pilot in command. The captain is responsible for the vessel and its safety.

  1. 47 CFR 97.11 Stations aboard ships or aircraft (Cornell LII mirror of eCFR) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/47/97.11
    must be approved by the master of the ship or pilot in command
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. 47 CFR 97.11 Stations aboard ships or aircraft (Cornell LII mirror of eCFR) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/47/97.11
    operated while the aircraft is operating under Instrument Flight Rules
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  3. 47 CFR 97.5 Station license required (Cornell LII mirror of eCFR) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/47/97.5
    aboard any vessel or craft that is documented or registered in the United States
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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