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Choose routes, altitudes, and speeds that will provide the fastest, safest, and smoothest flights.
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Supervise other crew members.
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Check aircraft prior to flights to ensure that the engines, controls, instruments, and other systems are functioning properly.
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Contact control towers for takeoff clearances, arrival instructions, and other information, using radio equipment.
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Order changes in fuel supplies, loads, routes, or schedules to ensure safety of flights.
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Instruct other pilots and student pilots in aircraft operations.
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Obtain and review data such as load weights, fuel supplies, weather conditions, and flight schedules to determine flight plans and identify needed changes.
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Teach company regulations and procedures to other pilots.
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Request changes in altitudes or routes as circumstances dictate.
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Use instrumentation to pilot aircraft when visibility is poor.
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Co-pilot aircraft or perform captain's duties, as required.
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Monitor engine operation, fuel consumption, and functioning of aircraft systems during flights.
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Coordinate flight activities with ground crews and air traffic control, and inform crew members of flight and test procedures.
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Conduct in-flight tests and evaluations at specified altitudes and in all types of weather to determine the receptivity and other characteristics of equipment and systems.
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Perform minor aircraft maintenance and repair work, or arrange for major maintenance.
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Write specified information in flight records, such as flight times, altitudes flown, and fuel consumption.
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Rescue and evacuate injured persons.
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Fly with other pilots or pilot-license applicants to evaluate their proficiency.
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Start engines, operate controls, and pilot airplanes to transport passengers, mail, or freight according to flight plans, regulations, and procedures.
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File instrument flight plans with air traffic control so that flights can be coordinated with other air traffic.
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Plan and formulate flight activities and test schedules and prepare flight evaluation reports.
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Consider airport altitudes, outside temperatures, plane weights, and wind speeds and directions to calculate the speed needed to become airborne.
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Check baggage or cargo to ensure that it has been loaded correctly.
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Plan flights according to government and company regulations, using aeronautical charts and navigation instruments.