Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Flight Instructor
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 15; Flight Crew Total 4500; Flight Crew Type 220
Confusion; Situational Awareness
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural FAR; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
General None Reported / Taken
Chart Or Publication; Environment - Non Weather Related; Procedure
Depending on how the FAA interprets FAR 91.303; I may have inadvertently performed what might be considered as aerobatic flight over a congested area. In the afternoon I was on my way to ZZZ airport to fly; I had a couple of friends ask me to fly over so they could see my aircraft in flight. Being well aware of the requirements Part 91.119; safe altitudes over congested areas; and also always wanting to be friendly to non-flying public who may not enjoy aircraft noise; I maintained an altitude allowing above 91.119 minimums. I had always assumed aerobatic flight to be linked to the angle of 30 degrees. As I flew over the house; I orbited at bank angles meeting Part 91.307 (c) and altitudes meeting Part 91.119. Prior to and during this time; I visually and electronically (TIS and ADS-B) cleared the area for other aircraft. Based on my proficiency (I used to fly USAF fighters very low level at 500+ knots) and currency; I considered all maneuvering was conducted safely and smoothly. I ensured that any flight exceeding the limits of Part 91.307 (c) was conducted over open fields and above 1500 feet; per Part 91.303. Later; while reviewing the FARs in preparation for conducting a biennial flight review; I realized that the bank and pitch angle limits I used for aerobatic flight were only stated in the paragraph for parachute requirements; and that aerobatic flight was defined as 'an intentional maneuver involving an abrupt change in an aircraft's attitude; and abnormal attitude; or abnormal acceleration; not necessary for normal flight.' I am not certain what legally defines 'abrupt' changes or 'abnormal' attitudes; however; I expect the FAA to use the most conservative values; especially with their special emphasis on maneuvering flight; so that is why I am filing this [safety report].As a result; I am immediately implementing two changes to my flying:1) Restrict all flight over congested areas to a maximum of 30 degrees bank and <10 degrees of pitch.2) Stress wording of FAR 91.303 and this lesson into all future Flight Reviews that I conduct; in addition to discussion I currently provide about maneuvering flight mishaps.Bottom line; my major emphasis is to ensure flying will remain safe and to be a positive role model for all aviators that I come in contact with.
RV-7 pilot reported maneuvering over a congested area at 1;200 ft and later considered he may have violated FAR 91.303 with 'intentional maneuver involving an abrupt change in an aircraft's attitude' during the flight.