FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATM)Regulations (14 CFR 117/121/61)Easy
A Part 121 captain is scheduled to fly a multi-leg duty day and will turn 65 years old partway through that duty day. Under 14 CFR 121.383(c), what must happen?
- AThe captain may complete the entire duty day since it began before the 65th birthday
- BThe captain must be relieved of pilot duties before any flight segment conducted on or after the 65th birthday
- CThe captain may continue as PIC only on domestic flights, not international flights
- DThe captain may continue as PIC but must add a check airman as an observer
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The captain must be relieved of pilot duties before any flight segment conducted on or after the 65th birthday
14 CFR 121.383(c) prohibits any person from serving as a pilot in Part 121 operations once they have reached age 65, with no exception for flights already underway. The FAA has interpreted this to mean the individual cannot serve as a pilot on any leg occurring on or after the 65th birthday.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. There is no grandfathering to finish a duty day once the pilot reaches age 65
- C. The rule applies uniformly to all Part 121 operations, not just international
- D. Adding an observer does not satisfy the regulatory prohibition
Age 65 Rule (121.383(c))
No person may serve as a pilot in Part 121 operations after reaching age 65.
- Absolute age limit, no exceptions mid-duty day
- Applies to both PIC and SIC
- Distinct from ATP medical currency requirements
Memory trick: Turn 65, ground the wings that same day.