Supporting the aircraft captain during flights of a commercial, military, passenger or freight nature.
Overview
Approved for delivery on the 18/02/2019, the first officer pilot, Higher apprenticeship standard provides a level 6, non-degree qualification upon completion. This apprenticeship will typically take 24 months to complete, not including the End-Point Assessment Period.
What the course covers
The role of the First officer is to support the aircraft Commander or Captain in the safe and efficient conduct of the flight. The first officer works in a variety of aircraft, including those of a commercial, military, passenger or freight nature. In an event where the Commander became incapacitated, the First Officer will assume authority and responsibility for the aircraft and its crew, passengers and load.
Under normal operations, the Commander and the First officer will alternate in performing the roles of ‘pilot handling’ and ‘pilot monitoring’. Pilot handling is the duties relating to the safe and efficient flying of the aircraft. Pilot monitoring refers to the operation of radio communications as well as monitoring the pilot handling. The priority at all times is to ensure the safety and security of the passengers and crew.
This profession is highly regulated, meaning apprentices will undertake a number of associated professional qualifications. This apprenticeship standard allows for apprentices to achieve either a frozen Air Transport Pilot Licence or a Multi-Crew Pilot Licence, followed by Aircraft Type Conversion Training and supervised Line Training.
Careers and jobs associated
- Co-pilot
- Pilot
If you would like to find out more about this apprenticeship standard, including possible duties of the role, skills and assessment method visit the Institute for Apprenticeships.
