Definition

1. Noun:
   • The pilot in command of an aircraft; the captain: A "senior pilot" is the pilot who has the ultimate authority and responsibility for the operation and safety of the aircraft during a flight.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The senior pilot made the final decision to divert the flight due to the storm.
  • Before takeoff, the senior pilot briefed the entire crew on the flight plan.

Advanced Usage

• "to act as senior pilot": to perform the duties and exercise the authority of the pilot in command.
  • During the training flight, the first officer was allowed to act as senior pilot under supervision.

Variants and Related Words

• Captain (n): A common synonym for the pilot in command of a commercial aircraft.
  • The captain welcomed the passengers over the intercom.
• Pilot in Command (PIC) (n): The formal regulatory term for the individual responsible for the operation and safety of an aircraft.
  • The FAA regulations clearly define the responsibilities of the Pilot in Command.

Synonyms

• Commander: The person in command, especially of an aircraft.
• Aviator in charge: A formal way to refer to the pilot with commanding authority.

Related Phrases

• To be in the left seat: An informal phrase referring to the position of the captain/senior pilot in the cockpit.
  • After twenty years as a first officer, she finally moved to the left seat as senior pilot.

Noun

1. the pilot in charge of an airship