Federal Aviation Regulations Practice Test

To act as pilot in command of an aircraft carrying passengers, what must a pilot have accomplished?

1. Three takeoffs and three landings in any aircraft

2. Three takeoffs and three landings in an aircraft of the same category, class, and type

3. Completed a refresher training course

4. Hold a multi-engine rating

The correct answer is: Three takeoffs and three landings in an aircraft of the same category, class, and type

To act as pilot in command of an aircraft carrying passengers, the pilot must have completed three takeoffs and three landings in an aircraft of the same category, class, and type. This requirement is set in place to ensure that the pilot is familiar with the specific aircraft they are operating, which is crucial for safe and effective operations, especially in the context of carrying passengers. Having recent experience in the same type of aircraft guarantees that the pilot is proficient in handling its unique flight characteristics, systems, and emergency procedures. This regulation promotes safety by ensuring that pilots maintain a current level of skill and familiarity with the aircraft they're flying, particularly when it involves carrying passengers, who rely on the pilot's expertise for a safe flight. Other options, while they may contain aspects of pilot training and certification, do not specifically address the essential requirement of recent landings and takeoffs in the appropriate aircraft type when flying with passengers. Thus, option B is the only one that directly satisfies the regulatory requirement for the pilot’s experience in relation to carrying passengers.