In wake of plane crash, FAA sets new pilot qualification standards
More flight time required for co-pilots
In a final rule to be published soon, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is increasing the qualification requirements for first officers who fly for U.S. passenger and cargo airlines.
The rule requires first officers — also known as co-pilots — to hold an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, requiring 1,500 hours total time as a pilot. Previously, first officers were required to have only a commercial pilot certificate, which requires 250 hours of flight time.