General requirements for Advanced Qualification Programs

An Advanced Qualification Program (AQP) is an alternative training system that airlines can use instead of traditional Part 121 training requirements. Once the FAA approves an airline's AQP curriculum for specific aircraft types and crew positions, the airline must follow that AQP rather than standard training rules—though any requirements not specifically covered by the AQP still apply.

The AQP must cover all flight crewmembers, instructors, and evaluators, and may include other personnel like flight attendants and dispatchers. Nobody can serve in these positions unless they've completed the training and evaluations specified in that airline's approved AQP for their specific aircraft and role.

Practically, this regulation provides flexibility for airlines to design customized training programs while maintaining safety standards. It also includes a helpful grace period: training or evaluations completed in the month before or after they're due count as on-time, giving airlines and crew scheduling flexibility.

*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.*