Airline transport pilot privileges and limitations

An airline transport pilot (ATP) certificate grants at minimum the same privileges as a commercial pilot certificate with instrument rating. However, ATPs who meet specific age and experience requirements can also provide instruction in air carrier operations for aircraft they're rated in, including in simulators and training devices. This instruction must use aircraft with dual controls and is limited to 8 hours per 24-hour period and 36 hours per 7-day period (excluding briefings). ATPs cannot instruct in Category II/III operations without appropriate training and testing.

If an ATP also holds a separate flight instructor certificate, they can exercise full CFI privileges under the normal instructor regulations.

ATPs who haven't met the full age requirement (23 years old) and aeronautical experience cannot act as pilot in command in Part 121 airline operations, certain Part 91 operations, or specific Part 135 operations. They also cannot serve as second in command in Part 121 flag or supplemental operations requiring three or more pilots.

*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.*