Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 2 (8%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 14 (54%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 10 (38%)

• Record in log books information, such as flight times, distances flown, and fuel consumption.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Make announcements regarding flights, using public address systems.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Use instrumentation to guide flights when visibility is poor.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Respond to and report in-flight emergencies and malfunctions.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Contact control towers for takeoff clearances, arrival instructions, and other information, using radio equipment.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Monitor engine operation, fuel consumption, and functioning of aircraft systems during flights.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Check passenger and cargo distributions and fuel amounts to ensure that weight and balance specifications are met.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Confer with flight dispatchers and weather forecasters to keep abreast of flight conditions.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Order changes in fuel supplies, loads, routes, or schedules to ensure safety of flights.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Brief crews about flight details, such as destinations, duties, and responsibilities.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Choose routes, altitudes, and speeds that will provide the fastest, safest, and smoothest flights.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Coordinate flight activities with ground crews and air traffic control and inform crew members of flight and test procedures.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• File instrument flight plans with air traffic control to ensure that flights are coordinated with other air traffic.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Evaluate other pilots or pilot-license applicants for proficiency.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Test and evaluate the performance of new aircraft.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Plan and formulate flight activities and test schedules and prepare flight evaluation reports.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Start engines, operate controls, and pilot airplanes to transport passengers, mail, or freight, adhering to flight plans, regulations, and procedures.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Work as part of a flight team with other crew members, especially during takeoffs and landings.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Inspect aircraft for defects and malfunctions, according to pre-flight checklists.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Monitor gauges, warning devices, and control panels to verify aircraft performance and to regulate engine speed.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Steer aircraft along planned routes, using autopilot and flight management computers.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Direct activities of aircraft crews during flights.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Instruct other pilots and student pilots in aircraft operations and the principles of flight.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• 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.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Perform minor maintenance work, or arrange for major maintenance.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Load smaller aircraft, handling passenger luggage and supervising refueling.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task