FAA Ground School Practice Test

How many takeoffs and landings must a pilot have made in the preceding 90 days to act as pilot in command carrying passengers?

1. One takeoff and one landing

2. Three takeoffs and three landings

3. Five takeoffs and five landings

4. Two takeoffs and two landings

The correct answer is: Three takeoffs and three landings

To act as pilot in command carrying passengers, a pilot must have made three takeoffs and three landings in the preceding 90 days. This requirement ensures that the pilot maintains recent flight experience and proficiency, which is crucial for safely carrying passengers. The three takeoffs and landings must be conducted in the same category and class of aircraft that the pilot intends to operate. This requirement serves to reinforce skills necessary for the safest operation of the aircraft during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing, where a pilot's proficiency is essential for handling various situations that may arise. Thus, having a recent and sufficient number of landings and takeoffs enables the pilot to effectively manage the aircraft's performance during these stages, ensuring a higher standard of safety for passengers.