What is the minimum number of takeoffs and landings required for a Pilot in Command (PIC) to carry passengers during the day?

The correct answer is based on regulations that stipulate the requirements for a Pilot in Command (PIC) to carry passengers. The FAA mandates that a pilot must have completed at least three takeoffs and three landings within the preceding 90 days in the same category and class of aircraft in which they intend to carry passengers during the day.

This requirement is in place to ensure that the pilot maintains proficiency in not only the operation of the aircraft but also in the specific skills needed during takeoff and landing, which are crucial phases of flight. The requirement ensures that the pilot has recent experience handling the aircraft in situations that involve both departing from and arriving at an airport, thus enhancing safety as passengers are involved.

While there are provisions for other scenarios, such as night operations, the stipulation for three takeoffs and three landings is universally understood as the minimum standard for daytime passenger operations.