# Tasks & work activities — private pilot

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 53-2012.00 (Commercial Pilots).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Check aircraft prior to flights to ensure that the engines, controls, instruments, and other systems are functioning properly.
- **[Core]** Contact control towers for takeoff clearances, arrival instructions, and other information, using radio equipment.
- **[Core]** Start engines, operate controls, and pilot airplanes to transport passengers, mail, or freight according to flight plans, regulations, and procedures.
- **[Core]** Monitor engine operation, fuel consumption, and functioning of aircraft systems during flights.
- **[Core]** Consider airport altitudes, outside temperatures, plane weights, and wind speeds and directions to calculate the speed needed to become airborne.
- **[Core]** Order changes in fuel supplies, loads, routes, or schedules to ensure safety of flights.
- **[Core]** Obtain and review data such as load weights, fuel supplies, weather conditions, and flight schedules to determine flight plans and identify needed changes.
- **[Core]** Plan flights according to government and company regulations, using aeronautical charts and navigation instruments.
- **[Core]** Use instrumentation to pilot aircraft when visibility is poor.
- **[Core]** Check baggage or cargo to ensure that it has been loaded correctly.
- **[Core]** Request changes in altitudes or routes as circumstances dictate.
- **[Core]** Choose routes, altitudes, and speeds that will provide the fastest, safest, and smoothest flights.
- **[Core]** Coordinate flight activities with ground crews and air traffic control, and inform crew members of flight and test procedures.
- **[Core]** Write specified information in flight records, such as flight times, altitudes flown, and fuel consumption.
- **[Core]** File instrument flight plans with air traffic control so that flights can be coordinated with other air traffic.
- **[Core]** Conduct in-flight tests and evaluations at specified altitudes and in all types of weather to determine the receptivity and other characteristics of equipment and systems.
- **[Core]** Supervise other crew members.
- **[Core]** Perform minor aircraft maintenance and repair work, or arrange for major maintenance.
- **[Core]** Co-pilot aircraft or perform captain's duties, as required.
- **[Supplemental]** Teach company regulations and procedures to other pilots.
- **[Supplemental]** Instruct other pilots and student pilots in aircraft operations.
- **[Supplemental]** Rescue and evacuate injured persons.
- **[Supplemental]** Fly with other pilots or pilot-license applicants to evaluate their proficiency.
- **[Supplemental]** Plan and formulate flight activities and test schedules and prepare flight evaluation reports.

## Detailed work activities

- Arrange maintenance activities.
- Assist others during emergencies.
- Choose optimal transportation routes or speeds.
- Communicate with others to coordinate vehicle movement.
- Coordinate flight control or management activities.
- Direct passenger or freight transport activities.
- Evaluate performance of applicants, trainees, or employees.
- Inspect aircraft or aircraft components.
- Inspect cargo to ensure it is properly loaded or secured.
- Maintain vehicles in good working condition.
- Monitor engine operation or functioning.
- Pilot aircraft.
- Plan flight operations.
- Record operational details of travel.
- Resolve issues affecting transportation operations.
- Review work orders or schedules to determine operations or procedures.
- Test performance of aircraft equipment.
- Train transportation or material moving personnel.