If an A&P (who only holds a PPL certificate) performs work on an aircraft and does a post-maintenance flight to make sure the aircraft is functioning properly, would 61.113 apply? Unless the pilot pays the operating expenses of the flight, which as defined in 61.113 to be “fuel, oil, airport expenditures, or rental fees" than 61.113(a) is being violated because "no person who holds a private pilot certificate may.....for compensation or hire, act as pilot in command of an aircraft. Or would the A&P just be fulfilling his duties as a mechanic? Maybe this is why most individuals fly with the mechanic after a repair is made? More gray area within the regs.