What role does the Aircraft Commander hold during a flight?

The Aircraft Commander holds the position of absolute authority over the aircraft during a flight, which encompasses both safety and operational control. This means the Aircraft Commander is responsible for ensuring that all aspects of the flight—such as navigation, handling, and overall mission execution—are conducted in accordance with regulations and best practices. This authority is crucial especially in emergency situations, where decisive leadership and adherence to established protocols can significantly impact the safety and outcome of the flight.

While communicating with ground control is part of the Aircraft Commander's duties, it is not the sole focus of their role. Additionally, the Commander leads the entire flight crew, not just in a limited capacity, but by fostering teamwork and cooperation among all members. The management of technical issues is also not a sole responsibility of the Aircraft Commander; it often involves specialized personnel such as engineers or technicians. Therefore, the Aircraft Commander’s primary role centers on ultimate responsibility and authority over the flight, making the assertion of absolute authority accurate and central to their function.