Class

Definitions

• (1) As used with respect to the certification, ratings, privileges, and limitations of airmen, means a classification of aircraft within a category having similar operating characteristics.
  Examples include: single engine; multiengine; land; water; gyroplane; helicopter; airship; and free balloon; and
  (2) As used with respect to the certification of aircraft, means a broad grouping of aircraft having similar characteristics of propulsion, flight, or landing. Examples include: airplane; rotorcraft; glider; balloon; landplane; and seaplane.
• According to Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations: (1) As used with respect to the certification, ratings, privileges, and limitations of airmen, means a classification of aircraft within a category having similar operating characteristics. Examples include: single-engine; multiengine; land; water; gyroplane; helicopter; airship; and free balloon; and (2) As used with respect to the certification of aircraft, means a broad grouping of aircraft having similar characteristics of propulsion,
  flight or landing. Examples include: airplane, rotorcraft, glider, balloon, landplane, and seaplane.” (14 CFR part 1)

References

• 14 C.F.R. Part 1, Federal Aviation Administration, 2026
• Balloon Flying Handbook, Federal Aviation Administration, 2024