What are the minimum requirements under Part 61 for a commercial pilot applicant?

Under Part 61, the requirements for a commercial pilot applicant include holding a private pilot certificate, completing at least 250 hours of flight time, and meeting specific training and flight experience criteria. The correct response highlights that a commercial pilot applicant must have a private pilot license and a minimum of 120 hours of flight training, with provisions for cross-country flight experience.

To better appreciate why this is the correct answer, it's essential to understand that the minimum flight time required, including a well-rounded education in flying practices, is designed to ensure that commercial pilots have enough experience to operate under a variety of conditions safely. The reference to a 2-hour cross-country flight aligns with the requirement that candidates must have experience with navigation and the management of longer flights, which is critical for crew resource management and decision-making processes.

The other options do not reflect the actual regulatory requirements as outlined in Part 61 for commercial pilot certification. The emphasis on experience and qualifications in option B reflects the blend of knowledge and practical skills necessary for operating commercially—making this the correct choice.