Commercial Pilots

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: 3 (12%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 6 (23%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 17 (65%)

• Consider airport altitudes, outside temperatures, plane weights, and wind speeds and directions to calculate the speed needed to become airborne.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Write specified information in flight records, such as flight times, altitudes flown, and fuel consumption.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Teach company regulations and procedures to other pilots.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Obtain and review data such as load weights, fuel supplies, weather conditions, and flight schedules to determine flight plans and identify needed changes.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• File instrument flight plans with air traffic control so that flights can be coordinated with other air traffic.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Plan flights according to government and company regulations, using aeronautical charts and navigation instruments.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 · core task
• Plan and formulate flight activities and test schedules and prepare flight evaluation reports.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Use instrumentation to pilot aircraft when visibility is poor.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Start engines, operate controls, and pilot airplanes to transport passengers, mail, or freight according to flight plans, regulations, and procedures.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Monitor engine operation, fuel consumption, and functioning of aircraft systems during flights.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Check aircraft prior to flights to ensure that the engines, controls, instruments, and other systems are functioning properly.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Contact control towers for takeoff clearances, arrival instructions, and other information, using radio equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Check baggage or cargo to ensure that it has been loaded correctly.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Order changes in fuel supplies, loads, routes, or schedules to ensure safety of flights.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Co-pilot aircraft or perform captain's duties, as required.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Request changes in altitudes or routes as circumstances dictate.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Supervise other crew members.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Fly with other pilots or pilot-license applicants to evaluate their proficiency.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Rescue and evacuate injured persons.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Instruct other pilots and student pilots in aircraft operations.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Perform minor aircraft maintenance and repair work, or arrange for major maintenance.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental 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
• Pilot airplanes or helicopters over farmlands at low altitudes to dust or spray fields with fertilizers, fungicides, or pesticides.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Check the flight performance of new and experimental planes.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task