When is it prohibited to operate an aircraft with an experimental airworthiness certificate?

The operation of an aircraft with an experimental airworthiness certificate is specifically restricted when it comes to carrying persons or property for hire. This prohibition is in place because experimental aircraft are typically used for the purpose of flight testing and must adhere to more stringent safety assessments due to the lack of comprehensive operational history. The regulations governing experimental aircraft are designed to prioritize safety and reliability, recognizing that these aircraft may not have undergone the same level of certification and regulatory scrutiny as commercial aircraft.

Furthermore, experimental certificates limit operations to activities such as flight training or research, and these activities must not include any commercial use or transportation of passengers and cargo for compensation. This ensures that individuals flying in such aircraft are aware of the enhanced risks involved and that the pilot is qualified to operate the aircraft in its current testing phase.