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Pilot and navigate the flight of fixed-wing aircraft, usually on scheduled air carrier routes, for the transport of passengers and cargo. Requires Federal Air Transport certificate and rating for specific aircraft type used. Includes regional, national, and international airline pilots and flight instructors of airline pilots.
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
About this Career Path
Pilot and navigate the flight of fixed-wing aircraft, usually on scheduled air carrier routes, for the transport of passengers and cargo. Requires Federal Air Transport certificate and rating for specific aircraft type used. Includes regional, national, and international airline pilots and flight instructors of airline pilots.
Environment
Pilots work primarily in aircraft. They may spend a considerable amount of time away from home because of overnight layovers. Many pilots have variable schedules.
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
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Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
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Supporting Programs
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
Top Expected Tasks
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
Use instrumentation to guide flights when visibility is poor.
Start engines, operate controls, and pilot airplanes to transport passengers, mail, or freight, adhering to flight plans, regulations, and procedures.
Work as part of a flight team with other crew members, especially during takeoffs and landings.
Respond to and report in-flight emergencies and malfunctions.
Inspect aircraft for defects and malfunctions, according to pre-flight checklists.
Contact control towers for takeoff clearances, arrival instructions, and other information, using radio equipment.
Monitor engine operation, fuel consumption, and functioning of aircraft systems during flights.
Monitor gauges, warning devices, and control panels to verify aircraft performance and to regulate engine speed.
Steer aircraft along planned routes, using autopilot and flight management computers.
Check passenger and cargo distributions and fuel amounts to ensure that weight and balance specifications are met.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
KNOWLEDGE
Transportation
KNOWLEDGE
English Language
KNOWLEDGE
Public Safety and Security
KNOWLEDGE
Geography
KNOWLEDGE
Mechanical
SKILL
Operation and Control
SKILL
Operations Monitoring
SKILL
Active Listening
SKILL
Critical Thinking
SKILL
Monitoring
ABILITY
Response Orientation
ABILITY
Problem Sensitivity
ABILITY
Control Precision
ABILITY
Far Vision
ABILITY
Near Vision
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Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
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Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
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