What is the maximum percentage of flight time a co-pilot can credit towards an ATPL?

The correct answer is that a co-pilot can credit a maximum of 50% of their flight time towards an Air Transport Pilot License (ATPL). This rule is in place to ensure that pilots have sufficient experience in command and decision-making roles, as the ATPL is a license that requires a high level of operational proficiency.

When considering flight hours, the distinction between pilot-in-command (PIC) time and co-pilot time is important. The regulation recognizes that the responsibilities and experience gained as a co-pilot do not equate to that of a captain, who is ultimately in charge of flight operations and decisions. Therefore, while a co-pilot plays a critical support role and gains valuable experience, only half of their time logged can count toward the total required for the ATPL, thus promoting a better quality of training and readiness when assuming command roles in aviation.