Commercial Pilot License (CPL) 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A pilot in command must have a valid pilot certificate, a current medical certificate, and a photo ID in their possession when operating an aircraft. The pilot certificate demonstrates that the individual has met the necessary training and regulatory requirements to operate a specific type of aircraft. The medical certificate indicates that the pilot is physically fit to operate an aircraft. The photo ID serves as a form of identification that can be used to verify the pilot's identity and credentials.

Other options contain elements that, while they may be important in different contexts, do not fulfill the specific requirement for being pilot in command. For instance, having a flight plan is crucial for navigating and ensuring safety during a flight but is not mandatory for a pilot to fulfill the command role. A pilot logbook, while essential for tracking flight hours and experiences, is not required to be in possession for the legal authority to command an aircraft. Similarly, a certificate of insurance pertains to liability coverage for the aircraft and is not a prerequisite for meeting the pilot in command requirements.