Who is prohibited from flying in formation?

The correct choice is that any aircraft carrying passengers for hire is prohibited from flying in formation. This regulation is in place to ensure safety and compliance with aviation regulations concerning commercial operations. When aircraft are flying for hire, they are considered to be engaged in commercial activities, and as such, they must adhere to stricter operational standards. Formation flying can introduce additional risks and complexities, which are typically not managed as effectively in commercial aviation.

Flying in formation usually involves close proximity to other aircraft, which could complicate navigation and increase the likelihood of collision, thus posing risks to passenger safety. The restrictions on such maneuvers aim to protect passengers on commercial flights, ensuring that all operations remain within well-defined safety parameters.

In contrast, personal reasons for flying or specific aircraft characteristics, such as being a fighter jet or under 2000 lbs, do not inherently impose the same risk factors as commercial passenger operations. Consequently, the regulation primarily focuses on the nature of the flight operation (i.e., for hire) rather than the type of aircraft or the reasons for flight. This demonstrates a clear understanding that safety in aviation hinges significantly on the operational context of flight activities.