Inside the Cockpit: Airline Pilot Conversations During Long Flights

Ever wondered what takes place in the cockpit during those lengthy flights? While passengers have their distractions, the pilots upfront have a vital job to perform, complete with rules governing their conversations. Fiji Airways First Officer Nicola Armstrong provides insight into the inner workings of the cockpit.

Pilots Are Constantly Engaged: Contrary to common misconceptions about autopilot doing all the work, pilots are actively involved. They continually monitor the flight path, manage communications across different airspaces, plan for weather changes, handle diversions, coordinate rest breaks, and prepare for the arrival – all to ensure a safe and enjoyable flight.

Scheduled Rest Breaks: During long-haul flights, a team of 3-4 pilots shares the workload, ensuring that everyone gets adequate rest. There’s a discreet area behind the cockpit designed for crew rest, equipped with bunks and a quiet atmosphere, allowing them to catch some shut-eye without disturbing others.

The Sterile Cockpit Policy: Pilots adhere to a “sterile cockpit” policy, allowing only flight-related conversations below 10,000 feet to maintain focus and safety.

In-Flight Conversations: While cruising, pilots engage in general chit-chat, discussing interests and family updates, fostering camaraderie. These moments are valuable for building rapport, especially when flying with different colleagues.

Unspoken Rules: One unspoken rule in the cockpit is to avoid discussing politics or religion, creating a harmonious and focused working environment.

The next time you find yourself on a long flight, remember the dedicated pilots working diligently in the cockpit, following these rules to ensure a safe journey for all passengers.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, stuff.co.nz