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The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 121.427

Recurrent training

Read the official rule

This regulation establishes ongoing training requirements for airline crewmembers and dispatchers to maintain proficiency. Each person must complete periodic recurrent training appropriate to their aircraft type and position.

The training includes ground instruction covering required subjects (with minimum hours varying by aircraft group—for example, pilots need 15-24 hours depending on aircraft type), a knowledge assessment, and crew/dispatcher resource management training. Pilots in command must also complete leadership and mentoring training every 36 months.

Flight training requirements vary by position. Pilots must complete extended envelope and windshear training in simulators, though a proficiency check can substitute for some recurrent flight training. Flight engineers receive flight training with flexible simulator use.

These requirements ensure airline crews stay current on procedures, emergency responses, and aircraft-specific operations throughout their careers. The training can be reduced under certain conditions specified in §121.405.

*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.*

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 20, 2026.