What does a copilot do?

Being the copilot is an opportunity to prepare for the eventual step up to the pilot’s seat, though not every copilot becomes a pilot. The copilot assists the pilot during flight, including handling the radio communications, navigation, and working with the pilot to complete the many checklists involved with flying an aircraft.

What is the difference between a pilot and a copilot?

Though the pilot is the ultimate authority on an aircraft, the copilot, otherwise known as the first officer, is trained and qualified to fly the plane in the event of an emergency or to provide the pilot a break. Being the copilot is an opportunity to prepare for the eventual step up to the pilot’s seat, though not every copilot becomes a pilot.

What is a first officer & a co-pilot?

First Officers are usually under mentorship by Captains to gain experience. First Officers, also referred to as Co-Pilots, are usually the most junior pilot of the two people sitting up front. I say usually because some pilots do not want the responsibility or require the salary of a Captain and are happy to stay as career Co-Pilots.

What are the responsibilities of a pilot and co-pilot?

The pilot and co-pilot will decide the flight crew’s responsibilities before takeoff. For example, the co-pilot could be in charge of flying, in which case they’d be responsible for knowing the flight take off and arrival procedures. Co-pilots also learn other flight-related information, like the aircraft’s weight and balance. 5. Briefings

What can a captain do if he is a co-pilot?

There are some practical things that only Captains can do, like flying into some tricky airports, landing in strong crosswinds, and on many aircraft only the Captain can use the steering wheel (or Tiller) for taxiing. Historically there was a strong heirarchy - the Captain was the boss and the co-pilot was, you could say, a servant.

Where does a first officer sit on a plane?

While the captain rests, the senior of first officers sits in the left-hand seat, as for example on Air France Flight 447. Some airlines have the rank of "junior first officer", for pilots who are not yet fully qualified.