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Holly
Student
Glendo, Wyoming
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What are your main responsibilities as a flight engineer?
What do flight engineers do? #aviation #pilot #commercial-pilot #flight-engineer
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James Daniel Bauer
Airline Pilot/Air Force Pilot
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Kirkland, Washington
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James Daniel’s Answer
Hi, Flight Engineers are usually in charge of making sure all the systems on the aircraft are working properly. They conduct pre-flight checks of all the equipment, run checklists, and do some troubleshooting when things aren't working. On modern aircraft, flight engineers aren't really used anymore. There are some aircraft that still use them, but they are widely being phased out. Most airline pilots now start as a First Officer (aka Co-pilot).
Dr. Kelly Desso
Protective Services
235
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Somers, Connecticut
Updated
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
James is spot on with his thoughts. In our beloved United States, you'll find that commercial airlines aren't recruiting for this role anymore. Thanks to advancements in automation and safety systems, the cockpit crew has been streamlined from three to just two. Isn't science and technology wonderful? It's made flying a breeze for our dedicated flight crews, ensuring everyone reaches their destination smoothly.
During this transition, those affected typically pursued training to become a First Officer or experts in navigation technologies. If you're eyeing the First Officer role, you're in luck! There's a high demand for skilled applicants, especially now. With many retiring or switching careers as the industry bounces back from the COVID-19 pandemic, there are plenty of opportunities.
During this transition, those affected typically pursued training to become a First Officer or experts in navigation technologies. If you're eyeing the First Officer role, you're in luck! There's a high demand for skilled applicants, especially now. With many retiring or switching careers as the industry bounces back from the COVID-19 pandemic, there are plenty of opportunities.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Holly,
Key Duties of a Flight Engineer
A flight engineer holds a pivotal role in guaranteeing the safe operation of an aircraft. Their key duties encompass:
Aircraft Systems Supervision: Flight engineers are entrusted with the task of supervising and managing diverse aircraft systems during flight, including engines, fuel systems, electrical systems, and environmental control systems. They remain vigilant, constantly checking instruments and gauges to confirm everything is working as it should.
Pilot Support: Flight engineers cooperate closely with the pilot and co-pilot, aiding in the operation of the aircraft. They provide assistance in controlling engine power settings, monitoring fuel usage, and making necessary adjustments to ensure peak performance.
Emergency Response: In case of an emergency, flight engineers are equipped to react promptly and efficiently. They support the flight crew in implementing emergency procedures, resolving technical problems, and safeguarding the well-being of passengers and crew members.
Pre-flight Checks: Prior to each flight, flight engineers carry out meticulous pre-flight checks of the aircraft to identify any mechanical issues or malfunctions. They confirm that all systems are working correctly and that the aircraft is fit for flight.
Communication Management: Flight engineers take charge of maintaining communication with air traffic control (ATC) throughout the flight. They exchange crucial information, receive directives, and provide updates on the aircraft's status.
Record Maintenance: Flight engineers often handle the task of maintaining comprehensive records of flight data, maintenance logs, and any incidents that transpire during flights. This record-keeping is crucial for regulatory compliance and safety reviews.
The Role of Flight Engineers
Flight engineers are proficient aviation professionals who play an essential role in guaranteeing the safe operation of aircraft. They merge technical proficiency with operational knowledge to support the flight crew and preserve the aircraft’s systems during the flight.
Flight engineers usually work on larger commercial aircraft that necessitate a dedicated engineer to supervise and manage intricate systems. Although technological advancements have lessened the demand for flight engineers on contemporary aircraft, they continue to play a crucial role in specific operations where their expertise is indispensable.
To summarize, flight engineers are tasked with supervising aircraft systems, supporting the pilot, managing emergencies, carrying out pre-flight checks, communicating with ATC, and maintaining comprehensive records to ensure safe and efficient flights.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): The FAA, the main regulatory body supervising aviation safety in the United States, offers valuable guidelines and regulations that shed light on the responsibilities and requirements of flight engineers.
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO): As a specialized agency of the United Nations, ICAO establishes international standards and regulations for aviation safety. Their publications provide a global outlook on the role of flight engineers in commercial aviation.
Aircraft Maintenance Technology Magazine: This industry magazine covers various facets of aircraft maintenance and engineering. It offers detailed articles and insights into the duties and responsibilities of flight engineers in today's aviation operations.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Key Duties of a Flight Engineer
A flight engineer holds a pivotal role in guaranteeing the safe operation of an aircraft. Their key duties encompass:
Aircraft Systems Supervision: Flight engineers are entrusted with the task of supervising and managing diverse aircraft systems during flight, including engines, fuel systems, electrical systems, and environmental control systems. They remain vigilant, constantly checking instruments and gauges to confirm everything is working as it should.
Pilot Support: Flight engineers cooperate closely with the pilot and co-pilot, aiding in the operation of the aircraft. They provide assistance in controlling engine power settings, monitoring fuel usage, and making necessary adjustments to ensure peak performance.
Emergency Response: In case of an emergency, flight engineers are equipped to react promptly and efficiently. They support the flight crew in implementing emergency procedures, resolving technical problems, and safeguarding the well-being of passengers and crew members.
Pre-flight Checks: Prior to each flight, flight engineers carry out meticulous pre-flight checks of the aircraft to identify any mechanical issues or malfunctions. They confirm that all systems are working correctly and that the aircraft is fit for flight.
Communication Management: Flight engineers take charge of maintaining communication with air traffic control (ATC) throughout the flight. They exchange crucial information, receive directives, and provide updates on the aircraft's status.
Record Maintenance: Flight engineers often handle the task of maintaining comprehensive records of flight data, maintenance logs, and any incidents that transpire during flights. This record-keeping is crucial for regulatory compliance and safety reviews.
The Role of Flight Engineers
Flight engineers are proficient aviation professionals who play an essential role in guaranteeing the safe operation of aircraft. They merge technical proficiency with operational knowledge to support the flight crew and preserve the aircraft’s systems during the flight.
Flight engineers usually work on larger commercial aircraft that necessitate a dedicated engineer to supervise and manage intricate systems. Although technological advancements have lessened the demand for flight engineers on contemporary aircraft, they continue to play a crucial role in specific operations where their expertise is indispensable.
To summarize, flight engineers are tasked with supervising aircraft systems, supporting the pilot, managing emergencies, carrying out pre-flight checks, communicating with ATC, and maintaining comprehensive records to ensure safe and efficient flights.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): The FAA, the main regulatory body supervising aviation safety in the United States, offers valuable guidelines and regulations that shed light on the responsibilities and requirements of flight engineers.
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO): As a specialized agency of the United Nations, ICAO establishes international standards and regulations for aviation safety. Their publications provide a global outlook on the role of flight engineers in commercial aviation.
Aircraft Maintenance Technology Magazine: This industry magazine covers various facets of aircraft maintenance and engineering. It offers detailed articles and insights into the duties and responsibilities of flight engineers in today's aviation operations.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.