How to Log Flight Time When Splitting Time

If you are splitting time with another pilot to build hours, you can both log PIC time only when you are the sole manipulator of the controls in an aircraft you are rated for, or when acting as PIC in an aircraft that requires more than one pilot. Safety pilot rules also apply under simulated instrument conditions.

Time building is common for commercial and CFI-bound pilots. But logging it incorrectly is a fast way to get uncomfortable questions during a checkride or airline interview.

This guide breaks down exactly how to log time legally and confidently.

What Splitting Time Actually Means

Splitting time usually refers to two rated pilots flying together and alternating legs to reduce costs while building hours.

Common situations include:

• Two private pilots building time toward commercial
• Two instrument-rated pilots practicing approaches
• One pilot under the hood while the other acts as safety pilot
• Long cross-country flights where legs are swapped

The key concept is this:

Logging time and acting as PIC are not always the same thing.

The FAA allows certain pilots to log PIC even when they are not the acting PIC. Understanding that distinction keeps you out of trouble.

The Core FAA Rule You Must Understand

Under 14 CFR 61.51(e), you may log PIC time when:

• You are the sole manipulator of the controls of an aircraft for which you are rated
• You are the sole occupant
• You are acting as PIC of an aircraft requiring more than one pilot

Most time-building situations rely on the sole manipulator rule.

Simple version:

If you are flying the airplane and you are rated for it, you may log PIC for that portion.

Scenario 1: Two Private Pilots Alternating Legs

Example:

You and another private pilot rent a Cessna 172 for a 4 hour cross-country. You fly the first 2 hours. Your friend flies the second 2 hours.

How to log it:

Pilot flying during their leg logs:

• 2.0 PIC
• 2.0 Total Time
• Cross-country time if it qualifies

Pilot not flying:

• Cannot log PIC
• Cannot log SIC
• Logs nothing unless acting as safety pilot

In a standard single-engine airplane that does not require two pilots, the non-flying pilot logs nothing.

This is one of the most common logging mistakes.

Scenario 2: Simulated Instrument With a Safety Pilot

When one pilot is under the hood in VMC, a safety pilot is required under 91.109.

Now the aircraft requires two pilots.

Example:

• Pilot A is under the hood for 1.5 hours
• Pilot B acts as safety pilot
• Then you switch

Pilot under the hood logs:

• 1.5 PIC as sole manipulator
• 1.5 simulated instrument
• Approaches logged

Safety pilot may log:

• PIC if acting as PIC
• SIC if not acting as PIC

Important:

Before engine start, verbally agree who is acting PIC for that leg.

If you do not designate this, you create confusion in your logbooks.

Can Both Pilots Log PIC at the Same Time

Yes, but only in specific situations.

If Pilot A is under the hood as sole manipulator and Pilot B is acting PIC as required safety pilot:

• Pilot A logs PIC as sole manipulator
• Pilot B logs PIC as acting PIC in an aircraft requiring two pilots

This is legal when done correctly.

It is also one of the most misunderstood logging areas during checkrides.

Cross-Country Logging While Splitting Time

For commercial eligibility, cross-country must include a landing at a point more than 50 NM straight-line distance from departure.

You may only log cross-country time for the portion where:

• You were sole manipulator
• The landing met the 50 NM requirement

Do not assume both pilots can log cross-country unless both legally qualify.

Common Logging Mistakes

Avoid these:

• Both pilots logging PIC in a single-pilot airplane without simulated instrument
• Logging SIC in an airplane that does not require two pilots
• Not designating acting PIC before hood work
• Logging cross-country without meeting 50 NM requirement
• Logging safety pilot time without proper ratings

Remember:

Your logbook may be reviewed during airline interviews.

Example Logbook Breakdown

Flight details:

3.0 total flight time
1.5 under the hood
1.5 acting as safety pilot

When you fly under the hood:

• 1.5 PIC
• 1.5 simulated instrument
• Approaches logged

When acting as safety pilot and acting PIC:

• 1.5 PIC
• 1.5 Total Time

Total logged:

• 3.0 PIC
• 3.0 Total Time

Legal. Clean. Defensible.

Splitting Time Checklist

Before flight:

• Confirm both pilots are rated in category and class
• Agree who is acting PIC
• Confirm safety pilot requirements
• Verify medical certificates are valid

After flight:

• Log only what you legally qualify for
• Verify cross-country requirements
• Double-check totals

If you cannot defend your logbook entry using 61.51, do not log it.

Your logbook is a legal document. Treat it that way.

If you are preparing for your commercial or CFI checkride, being able to clearly explain how you logged split time is just as important as performing steep turns or lazy eights.

For more checkride-focused breakdowns, see our guide on logging cross-country time correctly.

PilotLinker connects serious pilots who care about doing things the right way. If you are building time or preparing for your next rating, surround yourself with pilots who hold themselves to high standards.