Which situation does NOT require a special flight operations certificate for aerobatics?

A special flight operations certificate is typically required for aerobatic maneuvers to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. This requirement is usually activated in specific situations that may pose a higher risk to people or property.

When flight visibility is greater than 3 miles, it indicates that the pilot can see sufficiently far to maintain awareness of the surrounding environment, thereby reducing the overall risk during aerobatic maneuvers. Under good visibility conditions, it’s easier for pilots to discern obstacles and avoid potential conflicts with other air traffic. This context of safety allows for aerobatic flight without necessitating a special certificate.

In contrast, the other scenarios involve environments where safety risks are heightened. Flying below 2000 feet above ground level can pose a greater risk of collision with ground objects or people, while performing aerobatics over an open-air assembly of people or urban areas is especially critical due to the potential consequences of an accident in those crowded areas. Therefore, these situations require additional oversight and certification to uphold safety standards.