What is a Safety Pilot?
In the context of aviation, a safety pilot is a licensed pilot who sits in the right-hand seat of an aircraft to assist and monitor the pilot or student pilot during flight operations. The primary responsibility of a safety pilot is to ensure the safety of all on board, which can include passengers, the aircraft, and other airspace users.
Who Needs a Safety Pilot?
Student Pilots: Before a student pilot can receive solo flight training, they must have a certified flight instructor (CFI) observe and monitor their flight, which is where the safety pilot comes in. A safety pilot can take off and land the aircraft alongside the student pilot, observing their performance and providing feedback.
Private Pilots: Even experienced private pilots may require a safety pilot in certain situations. For example, if a private pilot is flying an uninstrument-rated aircraft in IMC (instrument meteorological conditions), they will require a safety pilot who has instrument ratings to provide cross-checks and backup duties.
What Are a Safety Pilot’s Responsibilities?
A safety pilot’s primary responsibilities include:
• Monitoring the aircraft and its systems: A safety pilot must be aware of the aircraft’s altitude, airspeed, heading, and other critical flight data.
• Providing backup duties: A safety pilot can take over flight controls if the pilot in command becomes incapacitated.
• Observing the pilot’s performance: A safety pilot can identify potential hazards or errors and take corrective action if necessary.
Types of Safety Pilots
There are three main types of safety pilots:
• Certified Flight Instructor (CFI): A CFI is a licensed pilot with additional training and experience who can provide flight instruction.
• Private Pilot or Commercial Pilot: An experienced private or commercial pilot with a valid medical certificate can serve as a safety pilot.
• Safety Pilot Instructor (SPI): An SPI is a specifically trained pilot who is designated to provide safety pilot services.
Benefits of Hiring a Safety Pilot
• Enhanced safety: A safety pilot brings an additional set of eyes and expertise to the flight deck, reducing the risk of accidents.
• Additional training: A safety pilot can provide valuable training and feedback to student pilots, helping them to develop essential flying skills.
• Increased confidence: A safety pilot can provide peace of mind for private pilots operating in challenging weather or conditions.
How to Choose a Safety Pilot
• Check their qualifications: Ensure the safety pilot is a licensed pilot with relevant experience and training.
• Verify their medical certificate: A safety pilot must have a valid medical certificate.
• Check their availability and schedule: Ensure the safety pilot is available to accommodate your flight schedule.
Conclusion
A safety pilot is an essential asset in the world of aviation, providing an additional layer of safety and expertise to pilot training and operations. By understanding the role and responsibilities of a safety pilot, pilots and students alike can benefit from their guidance and support. Whether you are a student pilot looking for observation and feedback or an experienced private pilot seeking peace of mind, a safety pilot can provide the assurance and confidence you need to ensure a safe and successful flight.
Table: Common Scenarios Requiring a Safety Pilot
| Scenario | Safety Pilot Requirement |
|---|---|
| Student pilot flight training | Yes |
| Instrument-rated aircraft operation | Optional |
| Uninstrument-rated aircraft operation in IMC | Yes |
| Twin-engine aircraft operation | No |
| Nighttime VFR flight | No |
| Cross-country flight over 50 nautical miles | No |
Important Links
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) 61.87: https://www.federalaviationadministration.gov/rules regulation/14cf%7B61.87a%7D
- Airplane Flying Handbook ( FAA-H-8083-3A): https://www.faa.gov/news/media/airplane Flying Handbook.pdf
