Why is it required that two pilots fly an aircraft that has a max takeoff weight over 12,500 pounds?

Question

Why is it required that two pilots fly an aircraft that has a max takeoff weight over 12,500 pounds?

Answer 1

So if one of the pilots gets incapacitated the other one could land it.

Answer 2

It it not always required, however in order for a single pilot to fly those, he or she must attain a single-pilot waiver.  It basically consists of multiple proficiency checks that need to be renewed every 6 months.

This is required because all aircraft over 12,500 lbs require a type rating, and inside the type requirements of the airplane itself, there is a stipulation that the airplane is to be flown by a 2 person crew.

These exemptions are not particularly hard to come by, but they must be complied with.

Answer 3

It is correct that two pilots are required for aircraft over 12,500 pounds gross weight.  There are one or two exceptions, but in ordinary general aviation operations that is the rule.

It is just an arbitrary weight at which the FAA assumed an aircraft is sufficiently complex that it cannot be safely managed by one crew member.

Answer 4

not true. You can single pilot some jets and ther is a 14000lb crop duster out there too, single pilot.

above 12,500 you just need a type rating.

Answer 5

It is not true.

A friend of mine flew a Shorts SC.7 Skyvan which can be loaded up to 16,000lbs single pilot.

Answer 6

It was determined by the FAA, through accident statistics, that this was the best weight to apply the cutoff.

When two pilots are required is when the aircraft's original type certification from the manufacture requires it. The aircraft's original type certification is what determines weather you need two pilots to fly it. Some aircraft like the BE-1900C can be flown single pilot, but you have to take the type ride as a single pilot or a sic required restriction will be placed on your certificate. Other planes will require an annual autopilot check to suffice as the SIC.