As far as the casual flyer is concerned, captain is the most important professional on board a plane. However, few are aware of the gravitas of being a co-pilot/first officer. This week, we’re shining the light on the role of co-piloting, providing current and prospective co-pilots with new tips to help them improve in their role.
Observe the good and bad traits of your captain
In all realms of possibility, the captain who you are working with is likely to be an ethically sound, hard working, textbook abiding professional as he/she should be. There are plenty of traits among modern working pilots that are worth taking note of in order for you to use later in your career. It is worth noting any habits that you would categorise as bad traits – learning from other people’s mistakes is a vital part of your work as a co-pilot.
Remember, if you are a co-pilot right now, you are shaping the pilot that you are going to be tomorrow.
Make getting along well with your captain a priority
The working relationship between pilot and co-pilot on any flight is of upmost importance. As a co-pilot, it is your responsibility to mine the friendship you have with your pilot in order to work efficiently whilst maintaining the morale in the cockpit.
Focus on not annoying your captain with questions that you could work out in your own head, and concentrate on making their lives easier – which is a large part of what your job is all about.
Retain positivity
As with most professions, keeping positive is very important when it comes to co-piloting. Focussing on the details, but not getting bogged down by them, is vital to your daily role. If you’re having problems that your colleagues can’t help you solve, refrain from ranting about your issues in the cockpit . The cockpit is a place to be calm, positive, and professional – and as a co-pilot you should be encourage this to ensure a successful flight.
