how long should a pilot take?
<answer> A first officer must have at least 1500 hours and an airline transport pilot certification in order to work in the US as a commercial airline pilot. <context> Pilot Qualification Standards. The FAA has established a “1500 Hour Rule” that was designed to promote safety among airline pilots. A first officer must have at least 1500 hours and an airline transport pilot certification in order to work in the US as a commercial airline pilot. In order to qualify for the ATP certificate one must meet the following requirements: 1  At least 23 years old. 2  Hold commercial pilot certificate with instrument rating. 3  Pass ATP knowledge and practical tests. 4  1,500 hours total time as pilot.