The Pilot-in-Command (PIC) has command of, and the responsibility for the flight crew, passengers, cargo, the SAFE conduct of the flight, The Pilot-in-Command also provides guidance and coordinates the activities of every individual connected with the aircraft operation.
The Pilot-in-Command will adhere to proper Crew Resource Management (CRM) techniques and will accept input from all crewmembers prior to rendering a decision. Once rendered, the decision will be regarded as final by all crewmembers. No one, regardless of position, shall exert direct or indirect pressure to change a Captain's decision involving the SAFETY or the conduct of a flight.
The Pilot-in-Command will not be subjected to coercion by any Craft Charter, LLC departmental managers or customers. Good judgment shall prevail at all times. If it is determined that the Pilot-in-Command's decision or conduct of the flight is improper, abide by the Pilot-in-Command's decision and direct complaints and/or comments to the Director of Operations, providing such decisions shall not affect the SAFETY of the flight.
The Pilot-in-Command reports to the Chief Pilot, and indirectly, to the Director of Operations, He/she assumes the following duties and responsibilities:
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Retains the final authority for the safe operation of the aircraft (14 CFR 91.3);
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Directs the activities of the Second-in-Command, if applicable, ensuring flight crewmembers understand fully and completely what duties are expected of them;
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Ensures that the assigned aircraft is airworthy and that all proper documents are on board the aircraft;
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When operating conditions dictate, makes decisions regarding the start, delay, cancellation, or deviation of a flight from a planned destination;
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Ensures that the proper amount and grade of fuel is loaded onto the aircraft;
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Obtains a briefing on the weather, operating procedures, and any special instructions;
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Prepares or supervises preparation of flight plan including considerations such as altitude, terrain, weather, range, weight, cruise control data, airport facilities, and navigational aids;
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Ensures that weather and aircraft performance conditions can be met appropriate to the 14 CFR under which the flight is being conducted;
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Ensures that a flight plan is filed;
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Ensures that the aircraft weight and balance form/manifest is properly completed, signed, and distributed;
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Promptly reports all known or suspected FAA violations or incidents to the Chief Pilot;
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Maintains a current medical certificate as required by Craft Charter, LLC, and notifies the Chief Pilot if a medical (physical or mental) condition may impair his/her ability to perform a flight;
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Ensures that the VOR checks and other aircraft equipment checks are performed properly;
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Ensures that crewmembers provide all passengers with the appropriate briefing for each phase of flight;
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Ensures that emergency equipment such as life rafts, life vests, etc. as well as provisions for passenger comfort are aboard, ensures that all cargo is properly secured;
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Ensures the preparation of flight logs, reporting of mechanical irregularities, and recording of maintenance, by maintenance personnel when maintenance is performed en route;
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Ensures that all maintenance write-ups are passed to the maintenance personnel and that Flight Following is alerted to the current status of the aircraft;
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Determines the applicability of the regulations to each flight if pertains to either Part 91 or Part 135 operation;
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Ensures that a copy of the General Operations Manual is aboard the aircraft;
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Determines that the flight crew is adequately rested;
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Ensures that the aircraft is clean and prepared for flight with all aircraft stores and that appropriate catering provisions are on board;
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Operates the aircraft at favorable altitudes, while taking into account turbulence, oxygen requirements, and passenger comfort;
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Must be thoroughly knowledgeable of the General Operations Manual, 14 CFR, Operations Specifications, Flight Manuals, and other instructions pertinent to assigned duties;
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Maintains regular/frequent radio or telephone contact with the flight department management during the course of a trip to ensure operational messages are promptly conveyed between the flight crew and the base.