Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate: The Pilot's Partner on the Ground
March 8, 2026
An aircraft dispatcher is an FAA-certificated professional who shares responsibility with the captain for the safe conduct of every Part 121 airline flight. Dispatchers plan routes, monitor weather, calculate fuel requirements, and hold legal authority to delay or cancel a flight if safety requires it.
The Two-Person Rule
Under FAR Part 121, a flight cannot depart without a joint flight release signed by both the captain and the dispatcher. This "two-person dispatch system" means the dispatcher has real legal authority — not just an advisory role.
Certificate Requirements
- Be at least 23 years old
- 1 year of experience in a related aviation function, OR complete an FAA-approved dispatcher course
- Pass the aircraft dispatcher knowledge test
- Pass the aircraft dispatcher practical test
Skills Required
Dispatchers must understand meteorology, navigation, aircraft performance, fuel management, air traffic control procedures, and federal aviation regulations. Many dispatchers have a pilot background, though it is not required.
Browse Dispatchers
Search all FAA-certificated aircraft dispatchers in the AviationDepth database.