| Aspect | Pilot Flying | Pilot Co-Pilot |
|---|
| Certifications | Commercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license | Same as Pilot Flying, including CPL and ATP |
| Work Environment | Captain on the flight deck, responsible for flight operations | First officer, assists the Pilot Flying, shares flight duties |
| Roles & Responsibilities | Overall command, decision-making, safety oversight | Supports Pilot Flying, handles navigation, communication, and monitoring |
The Pilot Flying is the captain responsible for the flight, holding the highest authority and decision-making power. The Pilot Co-Pilot, or first officer, assists the Pilot Flying with operational duties. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same environment, but the Pilot Flying has the ultimate responsibility during the flight.