Who holds the final authority regarding the operation of an airplane?

The final authority regarding the operation of an airplane is held by the pilot in command. This is based on the principle that the pilot in command is responsible for the safety and operation of the flight. The pilot's role involves critical decision-making, which encompasses everything from pre-flight planning to handling emergencies during the flight.

The authority of the pilot in command ensures that the person at the control of the aircraft is fully accountable for the aircraft's operation and the safety of everyone on board. This includes making judgments about weather conditions, navigational choices, and the overall safety of the flight, thus reinforcing the vital position the pilot occupies during any operation.

While the airplane owner/operator, certificate holder, and flight instructor may have significant roles in aviation, such as providing resources, ensuring compliance, or educating pilots, they do not have the same direct operational responsibility that the pilot in command possesses. The pilot in command actively monitors and navigates the aircraft, and therefore holds ultimate accountability for the flight at all times.