Pilot operating limitations and pairing requirements

This regulation establishes experience requirements for pilot pairings in Part 121 airline operations.

When the second in command has fewer than 100 hours in type as SIC under Part 121, the pilot in command must personally make all takeoffs and landings in challenging conditions—unless the PIC is a check pilot. These conditions include operations at specially designated airports, low visibility (¾ mile or less), poor runway conditions (water, snow, slush), braking action less than "good," crosswinds exceeding 15 knots, windshear reports, or whenever the PIC deems it prudent.

Additionally, every flight must have either a PIC or SIC with at least 75 hours of line operating experience in that aircraft type. The FAA may grant exceptions for newly certificated carriers without experienced pilots, carriers introducing new aircraft types, or when establishing new crew bases.

These rules ensure adequate experience is present during operations requiring higher skill levels, protecting safety during the critical phases of flight.

*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.*