SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ifr-safety-pilot

In a civil airplane under a view-limiting device, who must sit in the other control seat?

A safety pilot with at least a private certificate.

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  1. Any adult passenger with a current medical
  2. A certificated flight instructor only
  3. A safety pilot holding at least a private pilot certificate ✔

Why: Under 91.109(c), simulated instrument flight needs a qualified safety pilot in the other control seat who can see forward and to each side. The airplane also needs fully functioning dual controls.

Huh, didn't know that: A competent observer in the airplane can supplement the safety pilot's view if needed.

The dad joke
A soloed student pilot "recognizes a Cessna 172 two out of three times."
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References

Answer: A safety pilot holding at least a private pilot certificate. Under 91.109(c), simulated instrument flight needs a qualified safety pilot in the other control seat who can see forward and to each side. The airplane also needs fully functioning dual controls.

  1. 14 CFR 91.109 Flight instruction; simulated instrument flight www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/91.109
    The other control seat is occupied by a safety pilot who possesses at least:
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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