Certification

This regulation allows pilots, flight engineers, and dispatchers to earn their certificates or ratings through an Advanced Qualification Program (AQP) instead of traditional testing methods. To qualify, you must:

• Complete the AQP's qualification curriculum satisfactorily
• Meet minimum standards from Parts 61, 63, or 65 (though the FAA may approve equivalent alternatives)
• Demonstrate both technical skills and crew resource management abilities together in realistic scenarios called Line Operational Evaluations (LOEs)
• Meet all other eligibility requirements for the certificate or rating you're seeking
• Achieve proficiency on the certificate holder's approved standards, verified by an instructor or check airman, and pass an LOE given by an FAA-approved evaluator

In practice, this means airline and commercial operators using AQPs can certify their personnel through scenario-based training and evaluation rather than traditional checkrides, provided the program meets or exceeds FAA standards for safety and competence.

*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.*