Why Extra Flight Crew Members Sit in the Cockpit During Takeoff and Landing

The short takeoff and landing of an aircraft is a critical phase of any flight. It involves numerous tasks and coordination between the flight crew, making it a perfect opportunity for additional crew members to ensure everything goes smoothly. There are several reasons why extra crew members may sit in the cockpit during this time.

Quality Control and Performance Evaluation

One of the primary reasons for extra crew members sitting in the cockpit during takeoff and landing is for quality control and performance evaluation. These individuals, often referred to as route checkers or instructors, closely monitor the procedures performed by the regular flight crew. This serves multiple purposes:

It ensures that the flight crew adheres to safety protocols and regulations. It provides an opportunity for training and development, especially for newer or less experienced pilots. It offers a real-time assessment of the performance of the flight crew, which can be crucial for identifying areas for improvement.

Mitigating Fatigue and Managing Workload

Long-haul flights require a crew rotation system to manage the maximum duty hours of the flight crew. During these flights, it is not uncommon to see several captains or first officers, but only one pilot in command. This crew rotation is essential for safety and crew well-being:

It ensures that each flight crew member has a well-rested and alert crew for critical phases such as takeoff and landing. It allows for additional hands on deck during high-pressure situations, such as emergency landings or in-flight malfunctions. It helps in dividing the workload and reducing the risk of human error due to fatigue.

The Role of Check Pilots

Numerous airlines occasionally deploy check pilots to ride along in the cockpit for the entire flight. These check pilots are highly experienced and ensure that the procedures being executed are in line with company standards and regulatory requirements. This practice is not only about quality control but also serves to provide a safety net for any unexpected situations that may arise:

They confirm that all safety protocols are being followed, including pre-flight checks and post-flight inspections. They can provide immediate feedback and assistance if required. They ensure that the flight crew is operating within the limits of their capabilities and regulations.

Best Use of Resources

While cabin crew are typically the busiest during takeoff and landing, supervising safety checks and assisting passengers, the extra crew in the cockpit can significantly enhance the overall flight safety by:

Addressing any omissions or mistakes that may occur during critical phases of the flight. Monitoring the flight crew for any signs of fatigue or distraction. Providing additional support during unexpected situations, such as severe turbulence or unusual aircraft behavior.

Conclusion

The presence of extra flight crew members during takeoff and landing underscores the importance of safety and quality in aviation. Whether for training and performance evaluation, mitigating fatigue, or simply maximizing the availability of experienced hands, these individuals play a crucial role in ensuring that every flight operates smoothly and safely. Understanding their roles and significance can help passengers better appreciate the complexity and importance of air travel.