wrote:
I believe the 1st class is optional for the co-pilot, but I thought
that a 1st class was required by the FAA for the captain.
IE to excercise the ATP privlegs one needs a 1st class.

Paul

Yes, that is correct. To exercise ATP privelages one must have a 1sst
class med. A 2nd class is required to exercise commercial privelages
(e.g. non-ATP). Most airlines require both Capt. and FO to have 1st
class meds though.