FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATM)Regulations (14 CFR 117/121/61)Hard
A regional airline is hiring for a position responsible for exercising operational control jointly with the pilot in command, including flight planning and authorizing dispatch releases. Under 14 CFR 121.463, what must this individual hold?
- AA restricted radiotelephone operator permit issued by the FCC
- BAn FAA aircraft dispatcher certificate
- CAn Airline Transport Pilot certificate
- DA commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. An FAA aircraft dispatcher certificate
14 CFR 121.463 requires that no person may serve as a dispatcher for a Part 121 certificate holder unless that person holds a currently effective aircraft dispatcher certificate issued under 14 CFR Part 65. This certificate, not a pilot certificate, authorizes the exercise of operational control functions such as authorizing dispatch releases.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. An FCC permit relates to radio operation, not dispatcher authority
- C. An ATP certificate qualifies a person to act as PIC, not as a dispatcher
- D. A commercial pilot certificate does not authorize dispatcher functions
Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate (121.463)
Part 121 requires anyone performing dispatcher duties to hold an FAA aircraft dispatcher certificate issued under Part 65.
- Certificated under 14 CFR Part 65
- Required to jointly exercise operational control with the PIC
- Distinct from pilot certificates, which do not confer dispatcher authority
Memory trick: No dispatcher badge under Part 65, no release authority.