Starting the Day: Pre-Flight Preparations

The day for an airline pilot often begins hours before the flight itself. Depending on the flight schedule, pilots must arrive at the airport early to initiate the pre-flight process.

One of the pilot’s first tasks is to check the flight plan, including the route, weather conditions, and air traffic. Weather plays a critical role, as it can affect fuel consumption, flight paths, and overall safety. Pilots rely on advanced weather forecasting systems to anticipate any potential turbulence, storms, or wind patterns that could affect the journey.

Next, the pilot attends a crew briefing, where the captain, co-pilot, and cabin crew review the flight details. This is the time to discuss key information such as the number of passengers, cargo weight, and any special instructions. They also coordinate with air traffic control (ATC) to confirm clearance and ensure that all preparations are in place.

After the briefing, pilots proceed to the aircraft for a detailed pre-flight inspection. This involves checking the functionality of crucial systems like communication, navigation, and emergency equipment. The fuel levels are verified to ensure there’s enough for the flight, plus reserves in case of diversions or delays. These thorough checks are essential to guarantee the aircraft is in optimal condition for a safe journey.

Getting Ready for Takeoff

With pre-flight procedures completed, the pilots move into the cockpit to begin the takeoff preparations. Inside the cockpit, the captain and first officer go through a comprehensive pre-takeoff checklist to ensure all systems are working as expected. This includes configuring the flight management system, setting up autopilot settings, and verifying key performance indicators like engine status and fuel efficiency.

Once the aircraft is ready for takeoff, the pilots communicate with air traffic control to receive taxi clearance. The aircraft then navigates the airport’s complex network of taxiways, guided by ATC to avoid other planes and ground obstacles. Once at the runway, the pilots receive final clearance for takeoff.

The actual takeoff requires intense focus and coordination between the pilot and co-pilot. As the plane accelerates down the runway, the pilot monitors the speed, engine power, and alignment with the runway. At the precise moment, the pilot pulls back on the controls to lift the aircraft into the sky. This critical phase requires careful attention, as the aircraft must maintain the correct climb rate and follow the designated departure route, all while keeping communication with ATC.

Cruising at Altitude: Monitoring Systems and Conditions

Once the plane has reached its cruising altitude, the workload for the pilot shifts. The autopilot system typically takes over the primary control of the aircraft, handling much of the flying. However, pilots are far from passive during this stage. They must constantly monitor the aircraft’s systems, including fuel levels, engine performance, and weather conditions, to ensure everything is running smoothly.

Pilots remain in continuous contact with air traffic control, receiving updates on any changes in the flight path, nearby air traffic, or new weather patterns that may require adjustments to altitude or direction. Even though autopilot handles many functions, the captain and co-pilot must be ready to take manual control at a moment’s notice.

In-flight duties also include coordinating with the cabin crew to ensure passengers’ comfort and safety. This might involve addressing any issues with turbulence, responding to medical emergencies, or keeping passengers informed about the flight’s progress. Pilots must be skilled not only in technical flying but also in leadership and decision-making, as they are responsible for the well-being of everyone onboard.

Managing Unexpected Situations

One of the challenges of being a pilot is dealing with unexpected situations that can arise during a flight. This could be anything from sudden turbulence to unexpected weather changes or technical issues with the aircraft. Pilots must remain calm and collected, using their training to make rapid decisions that prioritize safety.

In the event of turbulence, for example, pilots may adjust the aircraft’s altitude to find smoother air or alter the route to avoid a storm. In more serious cases, such as technical malfunctions, pilots follow detailed emergency protocols to either resolve the issue in-flight or prepare for an emergency landing.

The ability to respond quickly and effectively to unforeseen circumstances is one of the core responsibilities of an airline pilot. Years of training and experience come into play as they navigate these challenges while maintaining communication with air traffic control and ensuring the safety of the passengers.

Descent and Landing: Precision in Action

As the aircraft approaches its destination, the workload intensifies once more. The descent and landing phase is one of the most critical parts of the flight. Pilots must coordinate with air traffic control to begin the descent and prepare the plane for landing, taking into account factors such as wind speed, visibility, and runway conditions.

During descent, the pilot must carefully reduce speed and altitude while aligning the aircraft with the runway. This requires precision, as any misalignment or miscalculation could result in a rough landing or missed approach. Throughout this phase, pilots are in constant communication with ATC, ensuring they follow the correct approach path and receive clearance for landing.

Landing itself requires intense focus. The pilot must guide the plane to touch down at the correct speed and angle while minimizing the impact on the runway. Once the wheels are safely on the ground, the pilot engages the brakes and reverse thrust to bring the aircraft to a controlled stop. After landing, the aircraft is guided to the gate, and passengers disembark.

Post-Flight Responsibilities

After the flight, the pilots still have a number of responsibilities to complete. Post-flight procedures involve shutting down the aircraft’s systems, completing logs, and submitting reports on any issues or irregularities during the flight. These reports are crucial for the maintenance team, ensuring the aircraft is ready for future flights.

Once all post-flight duties are completed, pilots enter their mandated rest period. The aviation industry has strict regulations on rest periods to ensure that pilots are well-rested and alert for their next assignment. Depending on the flight’s length and the schedule, pilots may stay overnight at their destination or return home after a long-haul flight.

The Challenges and Rewards of the Job

Being an airline pilot comes with a unique set of challenges. Long hours, irregular schedules, and time spent away from family can make the job demanding. Additionally, pilots must maintain high levels of focus and be prepared to handle any situation that arises during a flight. The responsibility for the safety of passengers and crew is immense, and there’s no room for error.

However, the rewards are just as great. Pilots have the opportunity to go to destinations all over the world, experience the thrill of flight, and be a part of an elite career that few people have ever had. The satisfaction that comes from ensuring a smooth and safe flight is unmatched, making all the challenges worth it.

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1. Queenstown to Milford Sound, New Zealand

New Zealand is famous for its dramatic landscapes, and few flights capture its beauty quite like the short hop from Queenstown to Milford Sound. This scenic route takes you over the towering Southern Alps, offering a bird’s-eye view of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and pristine lakes. As the flight approaches Milford Sound, passengers are treated to stunning views of the fjords, waterfalls cascading into the ocean, and lush green cliffs rising from the water.

This flight is often described as one of the most beautiful in the world, with many travelers choosing to fly in a small aircraft for an even more immersive experience. The ever-changing weather patterns in this region can create dramatic and constantly shifting views, making each flight a unique adventure.

2. Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo, Brazil

For a taste of Brazil’s natural and urban beauty, the flight between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo is not to be missed. The route offers spectacular views of Rio’s iconic landmarks, including Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, and the world-famous Copacabana Beach. As you ascend, the sprawling city gives way to lush rainforests, rolling mountains, and the vast Atlantic Ocean.

On the approach to São Paulo, passengers can see the transformation from rugged coastal terrain to one of the largest and most populous cities in the world. This contrast between nature and urban development makes for a visually stunning journey, one that showcases Brazil’s diversity and scale.

3. Los Angeles to Honolulu, United States

A flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu offers more than just the promise of a Hawaiian getaway—it provides hours of stunning Pacific Ocean views. As you leave the California coastline behind, the deep blue waters of the Pacific stretch out below, sometimes interrupted by small islands or atolls. Closer to Hawaii, the scene becomes even more dramatic, with the islands’ volcanic landscapes coming into view.

The descent into Honolulu reveals a beautiful panorama of white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and green volcanic craters, surrounded by the shimmering turquoise waters of the Pacific. This flight route not only provides a connection between the mainland U.S. and its island paradise but also offers a visual introduction to Hawaii’s natural beauty.

4. The Alps, Europe (Zurich to Venice)

Flying over the Alps between Zurich, Switzerland, and Venice, Italy, is a breathtaking experience. The towering peaks of the Alps stretch out as far as the eye can see, with jagged snow-covered mountains giving way to lush valleys and sparkling alpine lakes. As the plane crosses into Italy, the rugged mountains gradually soften into the rolling hills of northern Italy, with the sparkling Adriatic Sea appearing in the distance.

This route is popular among travelers not just for its views but also for the cultural experience of flying between two of Europe’s most iconic cities. Whether you’re heading from the Swiss financial hub of Zurich or to the historic canals of Venice, the Alps provide a stunning natural backdrop that makes this flight unforgettable.

5. Hong Kong to Tokyo, Asia

For those traveling across Asia, the flight from Hong Kong to Tokyo is a stunning journey over the East China Sea and the diverse landscapes of Japan. As you leave the bustling skyline of Hong Kong behind, the South China Sea opens up below, with its rich turquoise waters and scattered islands. On clear days, the coastline of China is visible in the distance.

As the plane nears Japan, the view transforms into mountainous terrain, with rolling hills and distant volcanoes coming into view. On approach to Tokyo, passengers may even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak, rising majestically above the clouds. The flight’s mix of urban, coastal, and mountainous landscapes makes it one of the most scenic in Asia.

6. Vancouver to Anchorage, North America

One of the most breathtaking flights in North America is the route from Vancouver, Canada, to Anchorage, Alaska. This flight takes passengers over some of the most pristine and untouched landscapes on the continent. As the plane departs Vancouver, it heads north over the rugged coastline of British Columbia, offering spectacular views of forested islands and winding fjords.

As you approach Alaska, the landscape becomes even more dramatic, with towering glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and icy rivers coming into view. The Chugach Mountains near Anchorage provide a stunning backdrop as you descend into the city, with the possibility of spotting wildlife such as whales or bears from the air. This route offers a unique glimpse into the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the Arctic.

7. Sydney to Cairns, Australia

For those exploring the Australian east coast, the flight from Sydney to Cairns offers unparalleled views of both urban and natural beauty. Departing from Sydney, passengers are treated to views of the iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, set against the backdrop of a sprawling, modern city.

As the flight heads north along the coast, the scenery transforms into miles of pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. Further north, the flight passes over the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most famous natural wonders, where vibrant coral reefs can sometimes be seen from the air. The approach to Cairns provides views of lush tropical rainforests, adding to the sense of entering a truly unique and diverse landscape.

8. Cape Town to Johannesburg, South Africa

South Africa’s diverse landscape makes the flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg a stunning visual experience. Departing from the coastal beauty of Cape Town, with its iconic Table Mountain and Atlantic coastline, the plane soon heads inland, revealing the vastness of South Africa’s countryside.

As the flight progresses, passengers can view the sprawling winelands, followed by the barren yet striking Karoo desert. The approach to Johannesburg offers a mix of rolling hills, mining landscapes, and urban development, showcasing the country’s mix of natural beauty and industrial history.

9. Santiago to Punta Arenas, Chile

Chile is a country known for its dramatic and varied landscapes, and the flight from Santiago to Punta Arenas offers a front-row seat to this diversity. Departing from Santiago, nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, the flight heads south along the length of Chile’s mountainous spine.

As the plane nears Patagonia, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and remote, with towering peaks, glacial lakes, and vast stretches of untouched wilderness. The view of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, one of the largest ice masses in the world, is particularly awe-inspiring. This flight is ideal for travelers looking to experience the raw, natural beauty of South America.

10. Dubai to Muscat, Middle East

For travelers in the Middle East, the short flight from Dubai, UAE, to Muscat, Oman, offers a surprisingly scenic journey over desert landscapes and mountain ranges. Departing from the modern skyline of Dubai, the flight quickly transitions to a view of the vast Arabian Desert, with its rolling sand dunes stretching out to the horizon.

As the flight nears Oman, the rugged Hajar Mountains rise dramatically from the desert, offering a sharp contrast to the flat sands of the UAE. The approach to Muscat provides stunning views of the Gulf of Oman, with its turquoise waters lapping against rocky cliffs and secluded beaches.

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To save themselves from this troublesome work, many wealthy families use the services of legacy planning. Professionals know both legal norms and psychologically effective approaches to regulating such delicate issues. They easily cope with tasks that can become a real challenge or even barrier for the person or their family. Certuity company provides comprehensive and competent legacy estate planning services that range from planning the transfer of different types of assets to preparing the next generation to take on new roles in managing family affairs.

Why Is Legacy Planning Advisable?

Do you need to worry in advance about who will inherit your property, or can this issue be left to chance? Of course, if there are people who are dear to you, think about the inheritance in advance. In the event of a person’s death in the absence of a will, the inheritance is divided between different applicants in accordance with applicable law. It may turn out that a significant part of the property will be passed to the family member who won’t be able to manage it effectively and just ruin the family business, estate, valuable collections, etc.

A good option to leave a financial legacy to your descendants is to purchase liquid real estate. It is best to buy real estate in developing states and cities. Some of the most promising cities for purchasing real estate are the cities of Austin and San Antonio in Texas. In order to purchase the right property in San Antonio, it is recommended to use the services of Real Estate Agents from the RSA company.

Tasks Performed During Legacy Planning

Thinking carefully about the disposition of property in the event of a person’s death and appointing heirs and beneficiaries is a multi-step process.

Philanthropic Projects to Enhance Community Well-Being

An important component of legacy planning is philanthropic projects. They express gratitude to a particular community, social group, or society as a whole. Philanthropy performs a humanitarian mission and helps to strengthen the reputation of the family and inscribe the name of a departed person into the history of the region or country. Philanthropic projects can take a wide variety of forms:

• Transfer of a personal collection of paintings to an art gallery;
• Donating a personal library to the university where the person studied;
• Allocation of one of the estates to the ownership of the local community for public needs, etc.

For example, researchers estimate that about 34% of all forest land in the United States is privately owned. The communities are interested in ensuring that these lands are not divided among the heirs, but are transferred to communal ownership. Such a gift would be a wonderful memory of the departing person.

Proactive Approach to Legacy Planning with Certuity

Legacy planning services are part of the wealth management comprehensive approach. Certuity has a nearly 20-year history of successfully providing family office services, investment consulting, and legacy planning. Thanks to its outstanding services, the company has gained national popularity among high and ultra-high net-worth families. Legacy planning is especially required by wealthy families because a well-thought-out legacy strategy leads to positive results in many respects:

• The smooth running of existing business or investment projects;
• Effective implementation of philanthropic projects;
• Significant tax savings on inheritance;
• Respect and understanding among the heirs.

Often, when drawing up a legacy plan, the company’s clients think about increasing their wealth to provide their loved ones with maximum capital after their departure. For these purposes, Certuity company offers the Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) https://certuity.com/ocio/ service, which allows the most efficient deployment of investments for profit growth.

The proactive approach that the company adheres to encourages a person to have positive thoughts and constructive actions, even in the face of such a challenge as a possible death. Concentrating on caring for loved ones and desiring to secure their future, many people get a new impetus for life, new perspectives, and the intention to realize them. By planning their legacy, clients get ascertained that all their wealth would be distributed among the heirs most efficiently. This brings harmony, peace, and confidence both to a person who is planning a legacy and the whole family.

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Cooking on an airplane is no ordinary task; it involves overcoming unique challenges to ensure a safe and satisfying dining experience for passengers. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of in-flight cooking and explore the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into preparing meals on an airplane.

Food Preparation on the Ground

Before the plane takes off, meticulous planning and preparation occur on the ground. Meal planning and menu development take place in collaboration with culinary experts and airline caterers. Careful consideration is given to factors such as taste, nutrition, and presentation. Ingredient selection and sourcing are also vital to ensure the availability of fresh and high-quality products.

In dedicated catering facilities, meals are prepared adhering to strict safety and hygiene regulations. Chefs employ specialized cooking techniques and equipment to create delicious and visually appealing dishes. Once cooked, the meals are packaged and stored appropriately to maintain their quality and freshness.

Onboard Kitchen Facilities

The onboard kitchen, known as the galley, poses its own set of challenges. The galley is designed with limited space and equipped with compact appliances tailored for aviation use. A modern trend in the airplane galley is hydroponic systems that allow to have fresh herbs directly on board.

The safety of passengers and crew members is paramount, so the galley is designed to prevent accidents and ensure smooth operations during the flight.

In-Flight Cooking Process

When it’s time for meal service, the crew springs into action. Meal assembly and final preparation are carried out using the pre-prepared ingredients from the catering facility. Heating methods and equipment like ovens and steamers are used to warm the meals onboard.

However, cooking at high altitudes presents unique challenges. The reduced air pressure and humidity affect the cooking process, leading to adjustments in cooking times and temperatures. Chefs must adapt their techniques to achieve the desired results in this distinctive environment.

Ensuring food safety and quality is of utmost importance during in-flight cooking. Strict protocols are followed to handle and reheat food, and temperature monitoring is carried out regularly to prevent any compromise in taste or safety.

Special Dietary Requirements

Airline companies recognize the diverse dietary needs of passengers and make efforts to cater to special requirements. From vegetarian and vegan meals to gluten-free and kosher options, the galley prepares specialized meals to accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions.

Collaboration with Cabin Crew

The successful execution of in-flight cooking relies on seamless communication and coordination between the galley and the cabin crew. The kitchen staff works closely with the cabin crew to ensure that meals are served efficiently and promptly to passengers. Furthermore, proper handling of food waste and cleaning protocols are followed to maintain cleanliness and hygiene onboard.

Future Innovations in Airplane Cooking

Advancements in technology and a growing focus on passenger experience are driving innovations in airplane cooking. Galley designs and equipment are being improved to maximize efficiency and optimize space utilization. Additionally, technology is being harnessed to enhance the meal preparation process, leading to more streamlined operations and increased culinary possibilities.

Do they cook first class meals on the plane?

Yes, first-class meals on airplanes are often cooked onboard in dedicated kitchen facilities within the galley. Airlines prioritize providing a premium dining experience to their first-class passengers, and preparing meals onboard allows for greater flexibility and customization.

In these onboard kitchens, skilled chefs work with a range of cooking equipment to prepare high-quality meals. The galley facilities in first-class cabins are typically more extensive and well-equipped compared to those in economy or business class. This allows for more elaborate cooking techniques and the use of fresh ingredients to create gourmet dishes.

While some elements of the first-class meals may be pre-prepared or partially cooked on the ground, the final assembly and finishing touches are completed onboard. This ensures that the meals are served at their peak freshness and flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience for first-class passengers.

The ability to cook meals onboard also offers the advantage of adapting to passenger preferences and dietary requirements more efficiently. Chefs can customize dishes or make modifications based on individual requests or special dietary needs.

Overall, cooking first-class meals onboard allows airlines to provide an elevated culinary experience that aligns with the luxury and exclusivity associated with premium cabin travel.

Conclusion

Cooking on an airplane is a complex and intricate process that requires careful planning, skillful execution, and the ability to adapt to unique circumstances. From the ground to the galley, a dedicated team of professionals ensures that passengers can enjoy satisfying meals during their flight. So, the next time you savor a meal on an airplane, appreciate the culinary feats achieved at high altitudes. Bon appétit!

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Clouds are classified based on their physical characteristics, and further on where they lie in the atmosphere. Meteorologists use Latin terms to describe clouds and their features. Here’s a look at ten of those terms and their meanings.

Cloud Types by Characteristics

There are various types of cloud formations. These are generally representatives of how the cloud looks, or by other apparent characteristics. There are many more Latin words used to describe cloud formations with great specificity; these are just a few of the most common.

1. Cumulus Clouds

One of the most common cloud terms you’ll hear in aviation, cumulus clouds are puffy white clouds. On a nice summer day, you may see small, pretty white clouds that look like cotton balls. Those are classic cumulus clouds.

The atmosphere must provide some lift to make a cumulus cloud. This gives the clouds that puffy look, which grows upwards as the air currents rise. If the atmosphere is unstable and the cloud gets very tall, these clouds can get many thousands of feet tall. 

The atmospheric lift, or convection, that makes cumulus clouds rise also means turbulence for pilots. While flying through a layer of summertime puffy cumulus may result in only a few minor bumps along the way, the turbulence inside a very tall towering cumulus can be severe.

2. Stratus Clouds

Stratus clouds are the opposite of cumulus clouds; instead of being puffy, they are stratified or layered. Imagine a grey, rainy English day with a solid overcast layer of grey clouds. These are classic stratus clouds.

Unlike cumulus clouds, stratus clouds indicate that the atmosphere is stable and that there is very little lifting force or convection present. Pilots expect the ride to be nice and smooth inside stratus cloud layers.

In some cases, stratus clouds are thick and grey, completely blocking out the sun. But sometimes, when they are at high levels in the atmosphere like cirrostratus clouds are, they may be translucent and allow you to see the sun through them. These types of clouds are usually responsible for sun haloes and sundogs.

3. Stratocumulus Clouds

It is possible to combine both of these types of clouds into one. A stratocumulus cloud is one that covers a large area but is made up of puffy clouds. They are thick and conjoined, but you can probably see bits of sky through some gaps. 

Stratocumulus clouds often allow rays of sunlight to shine through. According to the University of Massachusetts Cloud Atlas, this is sometimes called “Jesus’ rays,” but the proper name for the phenomenon is crepuscular rays.

4. Nimbus Clouds

If a cloud is raining, it is described as “nimbo-“ or “-nimbus.” For example, a cumulus cloud with rain is known as a cumulonimbus. This is the proper name for the type of cloud that makes a thunderstorm.

And that flat cloud from the rainy English day? That’s a nimbostratus cloud.

5. Lenticular Clouds

Lenticular, or lens-shaped, clouds form under a very particular set of circumstances that are of interest to pilots. The standing lenticular cloud is a stationary cloud that forms on top of mountains. When strong winds hit the mountain, they are forced upward by the terrain. The air cools and creates a cloud that caps the ridge.

Beautiful lenticular clouds look very peaceful, but to pilots, they indicate strong wind and turbulence. Pilots know to avoid flying in these areas.

6. Mammatus Clouds

Cumulonimbus clouds, or thunderstorms, are places of violent upheaval in the atmosphere. Vertical wind shear can be thousands of feet per minute–something all pilots want to avoid. Thunderstorms spawn tornadoes, microbursts, hail, and lightning. 

Cumulonimbus mammatus clouds are an indication of a severe thunderstorm capable of hazards like these. “Mammatus” describes the wavy, pouchy look on the bottom of the cloud. These clouds are dark and foreboding, and their uneven underside is a visual indication of the turbulence in the atmosphere.

Groups of Clouds

In addition to how a cloud looks, clouds are groups by how high they are in the atmosphere. These groups are sometimes called the “Families of Clouds.”

7. Cirrus (High Clouds)

Clouds located high in the atmosphere are commonly called cirrus clouds. They are made of ice crystals and often have a wispy look to them. If they fit another description, they will be described with the prefix “cirro-,” for example, cirrocumulus. These clouds look like fish scales, and sailors call them “mackerel scales.”

Cirrus clouds are a type of cloud unto themselves. They have a specific look due to the ice crystals spreading in the upper-level winds. They are commonly called “mares’ tails.”

High clouds can provide clues about what is going on in the upper atmosphere. For generations, sailors have used these clouds to get an idea of the weather that is coming. An old proverb says, “Mares’ tails and mackerel scales make lofty ships carry low sails.” That means that when both clouds are seen together, storms are on the way.

Technically, jet contrails are a type of cirrus cloud. But they are generally not considered clouds since they are human-made.

8. Alto (Middle Clouds)

In the middle levels of the atmosphere, you will find the “alto-“ clouds. These clouds lay between 6,500 and 20,000 feet above the ground.

9. Low Clouds

Clouds near the earth’s surface are commonly referred to by only their characteristic features, like cumulus, stratus, or stratocumulus. There’s no word precisely for “low cloud,” but if the cloud touches the ground, it is fog. 

10. Clouds with Extensive Vertical Development

Many clouds grow and build as the air rises in an unstable atmosphere. These clouds span the other three categories, beginning near the surface and growing up until they are surrounded by high clouds.

This family of clouds will always be made up of cumulus clouds since these are the types of cloud that grows upward. The two main clouds with vertical development are towering cumulus clouds and cumulonimbus clouds.

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Most people define commercial to mean something that has to do with business—the transaction of money for a service or product. In aviation, though, commercial is a word used to reference the airlines. Commercial airlines are those that offer their product to the general public by selling tickets on their planes. Commercial airlines are technically called scheduled air carriers. 

The word commercial appears in other places in aviation too. Pilots who are paid for their work, like crop dusters or flight instructors, need to have their commercial pilot licenses. They are technically flying a commercial operation when they go flying. But the public isn’t involved in this. That difference, of whether the public can fly on the flight, makes a flight a commercial operation.

Is General Aviation Safe?

Like all aspects of aviation, general aviation has an outstanding safety record. There are risks involved in any sort of flying, and general aviation is no different. Given the sheer number of flight operations that occur every day, the tiny fraction of accidents is very impressive. 

But, flying is inherently dangerous. Flying is statistically more dangerous than driving. In an aircraft, most accidents can be headed off by sound judgment and good decision-making skills.

In 2018, 97 percent of all aviation fatalities occurred in the general aviation sectors. Since GA encompasses so many different operations and the airlines have such an excellent safety record, that is not surprising.

Why is General Aviation Important?

General aviation is something that few people have contact with. As such, many people fail to see its value to their communities. General aviation airports are economic engines for the areas they serve. The FBOs and other businesses employ many local workers, as do the airport authorities or government entities that oversee field operations.

Many communities are only served by GA airports. These fields provide medical evacuation and emergency relief flights. They also allow locals to travel via air, using charter companies or private flights, even if there is no commercial service to their airport. An airport is vital for business, and having a nearby GA airport can lure new businesses to set up shop in town.

Additionally, planes are always flying in and out. Visiting pilots and passengers rent cars, stay in hotels, and dine out. Most airports receive mail or cargo flights.

According to the NBAA, there are more than 5,000 public-use airports in the US, but fewer than 500 see airline service. They estimate that all the goods and services that make up GA, when combines, add more than $150 billion and 7.6 million jobs to the US economy.

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