On a commercial flight, the term “first officer” is frequently used to refer to the second in command. When looking at the first officer’s title alone, it may appear that he or she is the most important person on board a commercial flight, but this is not the case. In reality, the co-pilot is the first officer.
On any airplane, there is some sort of hierarchy. The pilot, also known as the captain, is in command first, followed by the first officer. While both the pilot and co-pilot have responsibilities aboard an aircraft, the pilot is ultimately responsible for the passengers, the aircraft, and all crew members.
A first officer frequently has extensive flight experience as a result of military or other training. A co-pilot may have more experience than a pilot in some cases, though many commercial airlines prefer to hire pilots based on seniority rather than experience. In any case, if a pilot is incapacitated, the first officer assumes command of the aircraft.
All interested applicants must first gain experience as a co-pilot before becoming a pilot. As a result, many co-pilots work for a variety of airlines before applying for a position with a commercial airline. Because freight companies are often willing to train new pilots, some of these professionals begin their careers as pilots for freight companies. Enlisting in the military or working as a flight instructor are two options for gaining experience. No matter how much experience a first officer has, he or she must work in the airline industry before applying for a job with a commercial airline.
On a commercial plane, a first officer will typically sit to the right of the captain. A senior first officer will also take a seat on the right side of the plane. Senior first officers have completed all of the requirements for becoming a commercial airline captain. Senior first officers frequently act as co-pilots when a company does not have an opening for a captain.
Anyone who wants to be a co-pilot should start by gaining experience in the aviation field. Individuals can then apply for jobs with commercial airline companies after completing the necessary training. While being a co-pilot is a difficult job, it is also extremely rewarding.