FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

What is the primary responsibility of a pilot in command during a flight?

1. To ensure passenger safety only

2. To maintain communication with the ground

3. To exercise ultimate authority over the flight

4. To manage the aircraft's technical operations

The correct answer is: To exercise ultimate authority over the flight

The primary responsibility of a pilot in command during a flight is to exercise ultimate authority over the flight. This role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including the safety of the aircraft, passengers, crew, and cargo. The pilot in command has the final say on all decisions related to the flight, such as route changes, adherence to regulations, and responses to in-flight emergencies. By maintaining this authority, the pilot can make necessary decisions to ensure the safe operation of the aircraft, regardless of unforeseen circumstances or external pressures. In addition to overseeing passenger safety and aircraft operations, being the pilot in command involves balancing all aspects of the flight, including communication with air traffic control and navigation. While communication and technical management are important, they are part of a broader responsibility that ultimately relies on the pilot’s authority to manage the flight as a whole. Therefore, the concept of exercising ultimate authority is at the core of the pilot in command's role.