An airline transport pilot (commonly called an "ATP") is tested to the highest level of piloting ability. The certificate is a prerequisite for acting as a pilot-in-command in scheduled airline operations.

The minimum pilot experience is 1500 hours of flight time and 500 hours of cross-country flight time, 100 hours night time, 75 hours instrument (simulated or actual). Other requirements include being 23 years of age, instrument rating, being able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language, a rigorous written examination, and being of good moral character