FAA Aircraft Dispatcher (ADX)Regulations (Part 121)Medium

A Part 121 certificate holder is reviewing pilot qualification records. Under 14 CFR 121.383(c), what is the minimum airman rating required for a pilot in command of a Part 121 passenger-carrying operation?

  1. ACommercial Pilot certificate with multiengine rating.
  2. BPrivate Pilot certificate with instrument rating.
  3. CAirline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.
  4. DCommercial Pilot certificate with instrument rating.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.

14 CFR 121.383(c) explicitly states that no certificate holder may use a person, nor may a person serve, as a pilot in command of an aircraft in passenger-carrying operations under this part unless that person holds an Airline Transport Pilot certificate.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. A Commercial Pilot certificate with a multiengine rating is not sufficient for PIC in Part 121 passenger operations; an ATP is required.
  • B. A Private Pilot certificate is insufficient for any pilot position in Part 121 operations.
  • D. A Commercial Pilot certificate is insufficient for PIC in Part 121 passenger operations.

PIC Rating (121.383(c))

14 CFR 121.383(c) mandates that any person serving as a Pilot in Command (PIC) in Part 121 passenger-carrying operations must hold an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.

  • Applies to PIC in Part 121 passenger-carrying operations.
  • Requires an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.
  • Ensures the highest level of pilot certification for passenger safety.

Memory trick: For Part 121 PIC, passengers aboard, ATP is the card.

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