Which aircraft has the right of way over all others?

An aircraft in distress holds the right of way over all other aircraft according to aviation regulations. This prioritization is crucial in emergency situations to ensure the safety of the crew and passengers involved. When an aircraft is experiencing difficulties, it may need to take immediate actions that could affect its altitude or flight path, necessitating that other aircraft yield to it in order to avoid collisions and facilitate a safe resolution to the emergency.

In comparison, private jets, commercial airliners, and gliders do not have the same priority in the airspace hierarchy. While they each have specific rules regarding right of way among themselves—such as larger aircraft typically having to yield to smaller ones and considerations based on the type of operations they are conducting—they do not surpass the urgent need to protect an aircraft in distress. Recognizing the significance of this rule helps maintain safety in aviation operations, especially in scenarios where quick decision-making is required.