FAA Aircraft Dispatcher (ADX)Regulations (Part 121)Hard
A dispatcher is verifying a first officer's flight currency prior to scheduling a passenger-carrying trip. Records show the pilot's last takeoffs and landings in the same aircraft type occurred 95 days ago, with no simulator credit since. Under 14 CFR 121.439, may this pilot be scheduled to serve as SIC on a passenger-carrying flight?
- ANo, because SIC currency must be renewed every 60 days, not 90
- BNo, because the pilot has not made the required takeoffs and landings within the preceding 90 days
- CYes, as long as the pilot holds a current medical certificate
- DYes, because SIC currency requirements only apply to the pilot in command
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. No, because the pilot has not made the required takeoffs and landings within the preceding 90 days
14 CFR 121.439 requires that no certificate holder use a person, nor may any person serve, as PIC or SIC of an aircraft carrying passengers unless that person has made at least three takeoffs and landings in the same category, class, and type of aircraft (or an approved simulator) within the preceding 90 days. Since 95 days have elapsed without qualifying landings, the pilot is not current.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The regulatory window is 90 days, not 60 days.
- C. A valid medical certificate does not satisfy the separate landing currency requirement.
- D. The 90-day currency requirement applies to both PIC and SIC.
Pilot Recent Experience (121.439)
Requires PICs and SICs carrying passengers to have made 3 takeoffs and landings in the same type within the preceding 90 days, or in an approved simulator.
- Applies to both PIC and SIC
- 90-day rolling window
- Simulator credit is acceptable if approved
Memory trick: Ninety days, three landings—or the pilot sits this one out.