Let's assume that I fly every weekend with a friend which is not a pilot. Can I log that time as PIC and count the takeoffs and landings toward the currency requirement as stated below:
Sec. 61.57: Except as provided in paragraph (e) of this section, no person may act as a pilot in command of an aircraft carrying passengers or of an aircraft certificated for more than one pilot flight crewmember unless that person has made at least three takeoffs and three landings within the preceding 90 days, and -- The person acted as the sole manipulator of the flight controls; and The required takeoffs and landings were performed in an aircraft of the same category, class, and type (if a type rating is required), and, if the aircraft to be flown is an airplane with a tailwheel, the takeoffs and landings must have been made to a full stop in an airplane with a tailwheel.
Does sole manipulator of the flight controls means solo and by yourself (alone) in the airplane such as Cessna-172 or does it mean you can have a non-pilot passengers?