Definition

Noun A second pilot in an aircraft who assists the pilot in command (the captain) in operating the aircraft and its systems. The co-pilot is a fully qualified pilot who can assume control of the aircraft if necessary.

Usage

The word "co-pilot" is used to specify the role of the assistant pilot in the cockpit of an airplane or other aircraft. It is a compound noun formed from the prefix "co-" (meaning together or joint) and "pilot".

Examples * The captain briefed the co-pilot on the landing procedures for the unfamiliar airport. * During long flights, the co-pilot often takes over control to allow the captain to rest. * Her dream was to become a co-pilot for a major airline within five years.

Advanced Usage

• "to co-pilot" (verb, less common): To act as a co-pilot for an aircraft.
  • She was hired to co-pilot the new cargo plane on its transatlantic route.

Variants and Related Words

• First Officer: A formal, professional title for a co-pilot in commercial aviation, denoting their rank and responsibilities.
• Second-in-command (SIC): Another formal term for the co-pilot, emphasizing their role as the deputy to the pilot in command.
• Relief pilot: A pilot who takes over duties to provide a rest period for the primary crew, often used on very long flights; this can be a specific role distinct from the designated co-pilot/first officer.

Synonyms

• First Officer
• Second-in-command
• Assistant pilot
• Relief pilot (in specific contexts)

Related Phrases

• Pilot in command (PIC): The captain, the pilot ultimately responsible for the operation and safety of the aircraft.
• Flight crew: The collective term for the pilots (captain and co-pilot/first officer) and sometimes flight engineers who operate the aircraft.

Noun

1. a relief pilot on an airplane