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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/comm-p135-vfr-500

For most Part 135 VFR flights, how many total hours must a pilot in command have?

500 hours as a pilot, including 100 hours cross-country and 25 at night.

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  1. 250 hours
  2. 1,200 hours
  3. 500 hours ✔

Why: Section 135.243(b) requires at least a commercial certificate with the right ratings and 500 hours as a pilot. That includes 100 hours of cross-country and 25 of night. Airplanes also need an instrument rating, with exceptions.

Huh, didn't know that: Passenger flights in turbojets or in airplanes with 10 or more passenger seats need an airline transport pilot certificate instead.

The dad joke
A propeller is just a big fan in front of the plane to keep the pilot cool... When it stops, you can actually see the pilot start sweating.
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References

Answer: 500 hours. Section 135.243(b) requires at least a commercial certificate with the right ratings and 500 hours as a pilot. That includes 100 hours of cross-country and 25 of night. Airplanes also need an instrument rating, with exceptions.

  1. 14 CFR 135.243 Pilot in command qualifications (Cornell LII eCFR mirror) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/135.243
    at least 500 hours' time as a pilot, including at least 100 hours of cross-country flight time
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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