How much authority does an airline captain have?

U.S. FAA FAR 121.533(e) gives broad and complete final authority to airline captains: “Each pilot in command has full control and authority in the operation of the aircraft, without limitation, over other crewmembers and their duties during flight time, whether or not he holds valid certificates authorizing him to …

What do flight captains say before take off?

Usually, the Captain will make a small briefing before take-off, sometimes indicating the priority for take-off (e.g. “We are third in priority for take-off, we should depart in about five minutes”). But there is always an announcement like: “Flight attendants, prepare for take-off please.”

What is a captain pilot salary?

Salary Ranges for Captain Airline Pilots The salaries of Captain Airline Pilots in the US range from $60,770 to $187,200 , with a median salary of $117,290 .

Why do aircraft leave their gear down after takeoff?

For example, with an inoperative wheel brake system, we have to leave the gear down for two minutes after takeoff. This allows the wheel to spin down naturally before being retracted into the belly of the aircraft. So next time you see a 787 leaving its gear down after take off, this is most probably why.

What to do when an airline changes your departure airport?

What to Do When an Airline Changes Your Departure Airport. Yes, they can do it. Having your departure airport changed can work in your favor. Set the scene: You’ve finished packing, it’s nearly time for you to take off—mentally, you’re in vacation mode. Then you go to leave for the airport, check your reservation one last time and—hold up.

What does it mean when an airline drops a flight?

This is when the airline has decided to decrease the frequency of flights—or to drop them entirely—to or from your destination. More involved situations, such as a technical issue with aircraft or airport operations, may also be the cause.

What time do pilots get to the flight deck?

On a long-haul aircraft like the 787 Dreamliner, we will usually arrive on the flight deck around 45 minutes before the Scheduled Departure Time (STD). The initial briefing to discuss the weather and fuel requirements will have been carried out in the Crew Briefing Center, or at the gate if away from main base.