The increasing demand for pilots is directly related to the growth of the aviation industry and the rising number of flights. As more people choose to travel by air, airlines are expanding their fleets and increasing their flight schedules, which in turn requires more pilots. With the expansion of airline fleets, particularly for larger and more complex aircraft, using more than one pilot is also essential for safe and efficient flight operations.
The first dual-pilot airline flight occurred on April 17, 1926, in a Swallow aircraft by Robertson C. Smith and John P. Richter. The flight was from Chicago, Illinois, to St. Louis, Missouri, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. Before this flight, most aircraft were flown by only one pilot responsible for navigating, communicating, and operating the plane. Since introducing a second pilot, using a dual pilot system has become the cockpit crew standard for commercial aviation to split pilot responsibilities and maintain a high level of safety.
In this blog, we'll explore the question “why do airlines have 2 pilots for certain flights” and why having multiple pilots can enhance aviation safety. We'll also examine the different roles each pilot plays and explain how they work together to ensure a successful flight. First, let's explore the world of dual-pilot flights and understand why they're essential in modern-day aviation.
What is a Dual-Pilot Flight?
A dual-pilot Flight is where two pilots, usually known as the captain and first officer, share the duties of flying the aircraft, monitoring all onboard instruments, and ensuring a secure and successful flight from start to finish.
The captain is the pilot flying in command and is responsible for ensuring the flight's safety. They are the most experienced pilot and have the final say in all decisions made during the flight. In addition, the captain is responsible for the overall management of the flight, including supervising the first officer, communicating with air traffic control, and making critical decisions in case of emergencies.
The first officer, also known as the co-pilot or flight engineer, is the second in command and works closely with the captain to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the flight. The first officer (flight engineers) typically assists the captain with tasks such as takeoff and landing, communicating with air traffic control, monitoring the aircraft's systems, and making calculations related to fuel consumption, altitude, and weather conditions. They also take over the aircraft's controls if the captain becomes incapacitated or needs to leave the cockpit for any reason.
The Significance of Dual-Pilot Systems
The requirement for two pilots on commercial flights varies depending on the purpose of the flight; whether it is being operated for private use or regularly scheduled air services, a crew of two or more pilots may be required. These rules also vary based on each country's aviation regulations. Using two pilots, with a captain and a first officer, is a common practice in commercial aviation in the United States, including airlines, charter flights, and other forms of air transportation.
Commercial flights typically involve more extensive and complex aircraft requiring a high level of skill, expertise, and experience to operate safely. In contrast, smaller general aviation aircraft, such as single-engine planes or light jets, may only require one pilot, as they are often simpler to operate and do not carry as many passengers or travel as far. It is important to note that even in smaller aircraft, having a second pilot on board can add extra safety and backup in emergencies.
However, in most countries, it is a legal requirement for commercial airlines to have at least two pilots on the flight deck for flights carrying passengers. For example, looking at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements, the FAA requires at least two pilots for aircraft that exceed 12,500 pounds in the United States. The FAA also requires at least two pilots on flights scheduled to last more than eight hours or require a flight crew rest period. Similarly, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) requires at least two pilots on commercial flights carrying passengers in all aircraft types.
So why is a Dual-pilot system essential in Aviation Safety?
- Safety
- Workload Management
- Redundancy
- Fatigue Management
- Regulatory requirements
Safety
Safety is the primary reason for having two pilots on the flight deck. In the event of an emergency or a sudden illness, the second pilot can take over the controls and ensure that the plane lands safely. In addition, having two pilots means they can work together to monitor the flight instruments and systems, catch errors, and make split-second decisions.
Safety is the main reason airlines have two or more pilot crew because flying an aircraft can be complex and challenging, and many potential risks can arise during a flight. In addition, having two pilots on the flight deck provides an extra layer of safety. This is especially important during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing, where split-second decisions can mean the difference between a safe landing and a disaster. For example, in a situation of a medical emergency or sudden illness, the second pilot can take control and safely land the plane. Overall, dual pilot flights are essential for safety in commercial aviation, and having two or more on the flight deck provides a higher level of safety and assurance for passengers and crew.
Workload Management
Many aircraft operations require a crew working together to fly the mission safely. Crew members are often assigned specific tasks during various phases of ground operations and while in flight. For example, the First Officer may have control of radio communications while the Captain taxis the aircraft. This is a critical aspect of a dual-pilot system to manage workload; the captain and first officer work together to delegate tasks based on their roles and responsibilities, while Crew Resource Management (CRM) is used to optimize communication, coordination, and decision-making among crew members. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are also utilized to ensure that tasks are completed consistently and safely.
Additionally, modern aircraft automation systems can help reduce workload, but pilots must remain vigilant and carefully monitor the systems. With two pilots on the flight deck, the workload can be shared, which can help reduce pilot fatigue, prevent errors, and enhance situational awareness. Overall, effective workload management is essential for safe and efficient flight operations in a dual-pilot system, allowing pilots to work together to handle any situation during a flight.
Redundancy
Additionally, having two pilots provides redundancy in case one becomes incapacitated or unable to perform their duties. This ensures that the plane can continue operating safely and that the passengers and crew are not in danger.
On long haul flights, relief pilots may join the crew to allow for rest breaks, ensuring that there are always alert, well-rested pilots in the cockpit, further enhancing safety during extended operations.
Having two pilots allows them to work together to monitor the flight instruments and systems, catch errors, and make split-second decisions. This helps to reduce the likelihood of errors or mistakes, which can be critical in aviation.
Fatigue Management
Long flights can be physically and mentally demanding for pilots. By having two pilots on board, they can take turns resting and flying, which helps to prevent fatigue and ensures that they are able to operate the plane safely throughout the entire flight. This is known as a crew resource management (CRM) technique used to optimize crew performance and enhance safety.
During a flight, the pilots must stay alert and attentive to monitor the flight instruments and systems, make decisions, and operate the plane safely. However, the demands of flying can be physically and mentally exhausting, especially during long flights. To manage fatigue, the pilots can take turns flying the plane while the other pilot rests. This allows them to get some rest and recover from any fatigue or stress they may have experienced during the flight. The rest periods are typically scheduled during periods of low workload, such as during cruise flights. Aviation authorities regulate the rest periods, typically between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the flight length. During the rest period, the resting pilot can either sleep or engage in other activities. By managing fatigue this way, the pilots can maintain their cognitive and physical abilities throughout the flight, enhancing safety and ensuring that they can operate the plane safely in all situations.
Regulatory Requirements
Most aviation regulatory agencies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in Europe, require airlines to have two pilots on flights carrying passengers. These regulations are based on safety considerations and are designed to ensure the flight crew can operate the plane safely and effectively in all situations. The specific requirements for having two pilots vary depending on the aircraft type, the number of passengers, and the flight duration.
Single pilot operations are generally acceptable in specific scenarios where the risk and workload can be effectively managed by just one pilot. For example, many small aircraft, such as private planes or certain charter flights, are designed for operation by a single pilot and are equipped with simplified systems to ensure safety.
These regulations ensure that at least two qualified and trained pilots on the flight deck can work together to operate the plane safely and effectively, monitor the flight instruments and systems, and make critical decisions in an emergency. By having two pilots on board, aviation authorities aim to minimize the risks associated with flying and enhance the safety of passengers and crew. Overall, having two pilots provides higher security, redundancy, and efficiency for airlines and their passengers.
We hope this blog gave you a better understanding of the roles of dual-pilot flights in ensuring aviation safety. At Hillsboro Aero Academy, we take safety very seriously. We are proud to have received the prestigious IS-BAO stage III accreditation, which is an internationally recognized set of safety standards for business aviation. We strive to maintain these high standards every day. If you want to learn more about our IS-BAO accreditation, we encourage you to contact us at info@flyhaa.com or 503.726.3000. We're always here to answer your questions and help you achieve your aviation goals while prioritizing safety every step of the way.
Citations:
- Federal Aviation Administration. (2019). Pilot Certification and Qualification Requirements for Air Carrier Operations. Retrieved from https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_120-53B_Chg_1.pdf
- European Aviation Safety Agency. (2014). Certification Specifications and Guidance Material for Large Aeroplanes CS-25. Retrieved from https://www.easa.europa.eu/sites/default/files/dfu/CS-25%20Amendment%204.pdf
- International Civil Aviation Organization. (2013). Doc 10011 - Manual on Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEP) Competency-Based Training and Assessment. Retrieved from https://www.icao.int/publications/Documents/10011_en.pdf