Expert: Ned Dolan - 7/26/2006

Question
I was just wondering if you explain to me the typical day of a commerical pilot from the time he goes to the airport to the time he lands?

Answer
Hi Kevin, There are many, many answers to your question depending on what type of flying the pilot is doing. He could be a crop duster, a pilot dumping flame retardant on fires, a pilot flying for an airline carrying passengers or freight, a pilot flying business men in their private jet or a flight instructor. These are just a few of the occupations of commercial pilots. ]

They have a few things in common. They all have to check the weather they will be flying through and plan their trip so they have enough fuel to arrive at their destination and some reserve fuel in case they cannot land at their destination for some reason. They have to ensure the proper mechanical condition of their aircraft and make sure the amount of payload to be carried along with the needed fuel is within the capabilities of their aircraft. They need to check on the navigational facilities along their route and at their destination for normal operation.

I hope this helps.  Ned