Pilots and flight engineers: Initial, transition, conversion and upgrade ground training

This regulation establishes the ground training curriculum that airline pilots and flight engineers must complete when starting with a carrier (initial), changing aircraft types (transition/conversion), or moving to a higher position (upgrade).

The training covers two main areas: general subjects applicable to all operations (dispatch procedures, weather, navigation, communications, crew resource management) and aircraft-specific topics (systems, performance, limitations, emergency procedures, and the flight manual). Pilots must also receive training on stall prevention/recovery and upset prevention/recovery.

Pilots who've completed the ATP certification training program under Part 61 receive some credit and follow a slightly abbreviated curriculum focused on the carrier's specific procedures.

Captains upgrading to pilot-in-command receive additional instruction on leadership, command responsibilities, and mentoring techniques.

The regulation specifies minimum training hours based on aircraft complexity: 64-120 hours for most pilots, with 10-hour reductions available for those with ATP certification training. These minimums ensure standardized, comprehensive preparation for airline operations.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*