pilot in command

Meaning

This term refers to the pilot who has final authority and responsibility for the operation and safety of a flight. It is a legal and formal designation used in aviation regulations and official communications. The pilot in command makes all critical decisions during emergencies and flight operations.

Examples

• The pilot in command made the decision to divert the flight due to severe weather conditions.

  The pilot in command made the decision to divert the flight due to severe weather conditions.

• Under aviation law, the pilot in command is ultimately responsible for the safety of all passengers.

  Under aviation law, the pilot in command is ultimately responsible for the safety of all passengers.

• Who was designated as the pilot in command for the transatlantic flight?

  Who was designated as the pilot in command for the transatlantic flight?

• The pilot in command must conduct a thorough pre-flight briefing with the crew.

  The pilot in command must conduct a thorough pre-flight briefing with the crew.

• Even if the co-pilot is flying, the pilot in command retains final authority.

  Even if the co-pilot is flying, the pilot in command retains final authority.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ The chief pilot in command decided to land.

  ✓ The pilot in command decided to land.

  Adding 'chief' is redundant; 'pilot in command' is already the singular, legally designated authority on the aircraft.

• ✗ He is the pilot in commanding of this flight.

  ✓ He is the pilot in command of this flight.

  'Command' must remain a noun in this fixed legal phrase, not a participle.

Related Expressions

Practice

• As the ___, Captain Miller had the final say on whether to abort the takeoff.

  💡 The legal term for the pilot with ultimate authority.

  Show answer

  pilot in command

• FAA regulations specify the exact duties of the ___ during an emergency.

  💡 The person legally responsible for the aircraft.

  Show answer

  pilot in command