co-pilot
Học thuậtThân thiện
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
- a relief pilot on an airplane