Federal Aviation Regulations Practice Test

To act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft, the requirement to hold an FAA-issued pilot certificate is paramount. The FAA mandates that pilots possess the appropriate certification for the category and class of aircraft they intend to operate. This certification signifies that the pilot has undergone the necessary training and testing to demonstrate the knowledge and skills required for safe flight operations.

While having completed a minimum of 100 flight hours and possessing a valid medical certificate from an examiner contribute to a pilot's overall qualifications and ability to fly safely, they are not universal requirements for every situation. For example, certain pilot certificates do not specify a minimum number of flight hours before acting as pilot-in-command, and medical certificate requirements may vary depending on the type of operation and certificate held.

Thus, the primary and non-negotiable requirement for piloting an aircraft as the pilot-in-command is the valid and appropriate FAA-issued pilot certificate. This ensures that the pilot has met the necessary standards mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration for safe and competent aircraft operation.