{title}

Aeroplane Pilot

The pilot’s main responsibility is for the safe and economic operation and management of the aircraft, from take-off to touch-down.

Tasks for pilots and co-pilots include:

• preparing or checking flight plans, including the route and flying altitude
• programming flight management systems that help to plan flights and fly the aircraft
• calculating take off and landing weights and working out the fuel required
• checking the oils, hydraulic fluids and the general state of the aircraft
• briefing flight attendants and other pilots before the flight
• carrying out pre-flight systems checks
• communicating with air traffic control
• making regular checks on the aircraft's technical performance and position, and on weather conditions and air traffic during flight
• communicating with passengers and managing flight crew
• updating the aircraft logbook and writing a report at the end of the flight noting any incidents or problems with the aircraft.

Skills and knowledge

Aeroplane pilots need to have:

• excellent flying skills
• knowledge of flight theory and flight planning
• skill in interpreting flight plans and navigation data
• understanding of civil aviation laws
• good planning and decision making skills, and sound judgement
• good communication skills
• record keeping skills
• knowledge of safety rules and emergency procedures
• an understanding of weather and navigation.

Personal qualities

As a pilot you must be able to:

• think logically
• work well under pressure
• make good, quick judgments
• follow procedures
• get along with a wide variety of people
• be responsible, calm, confident and alert

Career progression

Pilots may be promoted to senior roles, such as captain, or to flying larger aircraft.  They can also progress from domestic to international flights, or may transfer to ground-based management roles.  Other opportunities include flying instruction and agricultural flying.