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ESCO occupation

aircraft pilot

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Aircraft pilots control and navigate aircraft. They operate the mechanical and electrical systems of the aircraft and transport people, mail and freight.

3153.2 ISCO 3153 ESCO source
Competences
88
Groups
4
Essential
24
Optional
64

Competences and skills

88 ESCO relations
Essential knowledge 7 competences

Occupation specific

0 competences

No competences in this bucket.

Sector-specific

5 competences
air traffic control operations

The procedures for organising air traffic, preventing collisions and ensuring smooth operations during flights, and the tasks performed by air traffic controllers, including Interaction and effective communication between aircraft and air traffic controllers.

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air transport law

The rules and regulations governing air transport, including international law.

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aircraft flight control systems

The setting, features and operation of aircraft flight control systems such as flight control surfaces, cockpit controls, connections, and operating mechanisms required to control the flight direction of an aircraft.

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civil aviation regulations

The body of regulations, rules and signals that apply to the field of civil aviation, including marshalling signals.

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common aviation safety regulations

The body of legislation and regulations that apply to the field of civil aviation at regional, national, European and International levels.

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Cross-sector

2 competences
geographic areas

The detailed knowledge of a geographical area where different organisations carry out operations.

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visual flight rules

Types of flight rules which are a compilation of regulations that allow pilots to fly aircrafts in clear as well as unclear weather conditions whereby it is declared that outside visual reference to the ground and other obstructions are not safe.

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Essential skills and competences 17 competences

Occupation specific

0 competences

No competences in this bucket.

Sector-specific

6 competences
apply signalling control procedures

Control train movements; operate railway signals and block systems to ensure that trains operate safely, on correct routes, and on time.

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comply with air traffic control operations

Act in compliance with instruction provided by air traffic controllers.

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ensure compliance with civil aviation regulations

Ensure best practice standards are adopted and all regulatory requirements met

Scope note
Make sure that all official aviation regulations are followed.
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implement airside safety procedures

Apply a series of airfield safety rules and procedures to ensure a safe working environment for airport crew.

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operate two-way radio systems

Use radios that can receive and transmit sound signals in order to communicate with similar radios on the same frequency such as mobile phones and walkie talkies.

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perform take off and landing

Perform normal and cross-wind take-off and landing operations.

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Cross-sector

11 competences
analyse weather forecast

Analyse weather forecasts and the information provided on meteorological conditions, such as wind forces, atmospheric structures, clouds, and visibility. Constantly monitor weather conditions to maintain the validity of the forecast. Provide analyses depending on the requirements of various different industries and service providers. Evaluate routine air observations.

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ensure ongoing compliance with regulations

Conduct tasks and procedures to ensure that aviation certificates maintain their validity; undertake safeguarding measures as appropriate.

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have spatial awareness

Be aware of your position and the space around you. Understand the relationship of objects around you when there is a change of position.

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operate cockpit control panels

Operates control panels in the cockpit or flight deck according to the needs of the flight. Manage on-board electronic systems to ensure a smooth flight.

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operate radar equipment

Operate radar screens and other radar equipment. Ensure that aircraft fly at a safe distance from one another.

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operate radio equipment

Set up and operate radio devices and accessories, such as broadcast consoles, amplifiers, and microphones. Understand the basics of radio operator language and, when necessary, provide instruction in handling radio equipment correctly.

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operate radio navigation instruments

Operate radio navigation instruments to determine the position of aircraft in the airspace.

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read 3D displays

Read 3D-displays and understand the information they provide on positions, distances, and other parameters.

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read maps

Read maps effectively.

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undertake procedures to meet aircraft flight requirements

Ensure that operation certificates are valid, guarantee that take-off mass is a maximum of 3,175 kg, verify that the minimum crew is adequate according to regulations and needs, ensure that the configuration settings are correct, and check if engines are suitable for the flight.

Scope note
Excludes aircraft over 5,700 kg.
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use different communication channels

Make use of various types of communication channels such as verbal, handwritten, digital and telephonic communication with the purpose of constructing and sharing ideas or information.

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Optional knowledge 9 competences

Occupation specific

0 competences

No competences in this bucket.

Sector-specific

6 competences
airport planning

The principles and procedures that govern the development of airports in order to meet the demand for aviation services and comply with the applicable regulations.

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aviation meteorology

The scientific field of study that interprets the impact of weather on air traffic management (ATM) and how thorough changes in pressure and temperature values at airports can create variations in head and tail-wind components, and may impose low visibility operating conditions. Knowledge of aviation meteorology can help to reduce negative impact on the ATM system by diminishing disruption and the consequent problems of disturbed flow rates, lost capacity and induced additional costs.

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geostationary satellites

The functioning and purpose of geostationary satellites, their movement in the same direction as rotation of the Earth, and their application for telecommunication and commercial purposes.

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military aviation

The rules and regulations concerning military aviation procedures, such as military air space, aviation procedures in civilian air space, and specific military aviation equipment.

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pre-flight procedures for IFR flights

The pre-flight duties required while preparing an IFR flight as provided in the flight manual.

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surveillance radars

Types of surveillance radars such as Mode A/C Secondary Surveillance Radar stations, which continuously interrogate all aircraft within their range, and Mode S Secondary Surveillance Radar stations, which carry out individually addressed interrogations of aircraft within their coverage.

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Cross-sector

3 competences
air force operations

The operations, procedures and compliant behaviour of a military air force, and of a specific air force base.

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freight transport methods

The different modalities of freight transport such as air, sea, or intermodal freight transport, including the details and procedures specific to them.

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military code

The code language used in specific intelligence or military organisations and operations, how to use and decipher them.

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Optional skills and competences 55 competences

Occupation specific

0 competences

No competences in this bucket.

Sector-specific

24 competences
address aircraft mechanical issues

Identify and resolve mechanical issues which arise during flight. Identify malfunctions in fuel gauges, pressure indicators and other electrical, mechanical or hydraulic components.

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apply airport standards and regulations

Know and apply the accepted standards and regulations for European airports. Apply knowledge to enforce airport rules, regulations, and the Airport Safety Plan.

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apply transportation management concepts

Apply transport industry management concepts in order to improve transportation processes, reduce waste, increase efficiency, and improve schedule preparation.

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balance transportation cargo

Maintain balance and mass distribution inside the means of transport (vessel, aircraft, train, road vehicles, etc). Ensure that passengers and cargo distribution do not hinder the mobility of the mode of transport.

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be friendly to passengers

Engage with passengers according to the expectations of contemporary social behaviour, the specific situation, and the code of conduct of the organisation. Communicate in a polite and clear way.

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carry out navigational calculations

Solve mathematical problems to achieve safe navigation.

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communicate in air traffic services

Ensure the implementation of an efficient communication exchange in air traffic services (ATS) involving airport movement areas. Follow procedures within the network.

Scope note
Communicate with air traffic control ground operations regarding all associated movements.
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create a flight plan

Develop a flight plan which details the flight altitude, route to be followed ,and amount of fuel required using different sources of information (weather reports and other data from air traffic control).

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ensure aircraft compliance with regulation

Ensure that every aircraft complies with applicable regulation and all components and equipment have officially valid components.

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ensure public safety and security

Implement the relevant procedures, strategies and use the proper equipment to promote local or national security activities for the protection of data, people, institutions, and property.

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ensure smooth on board operations

Ensure the trip goes smoothly and without incidents. Before departure review if all security, catering, navigation and communication elements are in place.

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follow airport safety procedures

Comply with airport safety procedures, policies and legislation to ensure a safe working environment for all employees, and to ensure the safety of passengers.

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follow ethical code of conduct in transport services

Carry out transport services according to accepted principles of right and wrong. This includes principles of fairness, transparency, and impartiality.

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inspect aircraft

Conduct inspections of aircraft and aircraft components, their parts, appliances, and equipment, to identify malfunctions such as fuel leaks or flaws in electrical and pressurisation systems.

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maintain relationship with customers

Build a lasting and meaningful relationship with customers in order to ensure satisfaction and fidelity by providing accurate and friendly advice and support, by delivering quality products and services and by supplying after-sales information and service.

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perform flight manoeuvres

Perform flight manoeuvres in critical situations, and associated ‘upset’ manoeuvres, in order to avoid collision.

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perform routine flight operations checks

Perform checks before and during flight: conduct pre-flight and in-flight inspections of aircraft performance, route and fuel usage, runway availability, airspace restrictions, etc.

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perform search and rescue missions

Assist in fighting natural and civic disasters, such as forest fires, floods and road accidents. Conduct search-and-rescue missions.

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respond to changing navigation circumstances

Respond decisively and in sufficient time to unexpected and rapidly changing situations while navigating.

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tolerate stress

Maintain a temperate mental state and effective performance under pressure or adverse circumstances.

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undertake procedures to meet helicopter flight requirements

Ensure that operation certificates are valid, guarantee that take-off mass is a maximum of 3,175 kg, verify that the minimum crew is adequate according to regulations and needs, ensure that the configuration setting is correct, and check if engines are suitable for the flight.

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undertake procedures to meet requirements for flying aircraft heavier than 5,700 kg

Ensure that operation certificates are valid, validate that take-off mass is a minimum of 5,700 kg, verify that the minimum crew is adequate according to flight needs and regulations, ensure that the configuration settings are correct, and check if the engines are suitable for the flight.

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use meteorological information

Use and interpret meteorological information for operations dependent on climatic conditions. Use this information to provide advise on safe operations in relation to weather conditions.

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work in an aviation team

Work confidently in a group in general aviation services, in which each individual operates in their own area of responsibility to reach a common goal, such as a good customer interaction, air safety, and aircraft maintenance.

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Cross-sector

31 competences
act reliably

Proceed in a way that one can be relied on or depended on.

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adapt to changing situations

Change approach to situations based on unexpected and sudden changes in people's needs and mood or in trends; shift strategies, improvise and naturally adapt to those circumstances.

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analyse work-related written reports

Read and comprehend job-related reports, analyse the content of reports and apply findings to daily work operations.

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apply air force procedures

Apply the procedures present in a military air force and on a specific base and being compliant with all the regulations and policies.

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apply company policies

Apply the principles and rules that govern the activities and processes of an organisation.

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apply military aviation regulations

Apply the procedures and regulations present in military aviation operations and missions, ensuring compliance with policies, safety and security.

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communicate with customers

Respond to and communicate with customers in the most efficient and appropriate manner to enable them to access the desired products or services, or any other help they may require.

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comply with checklists

Follow checklists and ensure compliance with all the items included in them.

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deal with challenging work conditions

Deal with challenging circumstances in which to perform work, such as night work, shift work, and atypical working conditions.

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ensure compliance with types of weapons

Comply with legal requirements when using different kinds of firearms and other types of weapons and their matching ammunition.

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execute flight plans

Listen to the briefing given by the captain or the crew manager; understand service requirements and apply the commissioned tasks in an appropriate manner.

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follow verbal instructions

Have the ability to follow spoken instructions received from colleagues. Strive to understand and clarify what is being requested.

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give instructions to staff

Give instructions to subordinates by employing various communication techniques. Adjust communication style to the target audience in order to convey instructions as intended.

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handle customer complaints

Administer complaints and negative feedback from customers in order to address concerns and where applicable provide a quick service recovery.

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handle stressful situations in the work place

Deal with and manage highly stressful situations in the workplace by following adequate procedures, communicating in a quiet and effective manner, and remaining level-headed when taking decisions.

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have computer literacy

Utilise computers, IT equipment and modern day technology in an efficient way.

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identify airport safety hazards

Spot threats related to security at the airport and apply procedures to counteract them in a quick, safe, and efficient way.

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identify security threats

Identify security threats during investigations, inspections, or patrols, and perform the necessary actions to minimise or neutralise the threat.

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interpret visual literacy

Interpret charts, maps, graphics, and other pictorial presentations used in place of the written word.

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keep task records

Organise and classify records of prepared reports and correspondence related to the performed work and progress records of tasks.

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listen actively

Give attention to what other people say, patiently understand points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times; able to listen carefully the needs of customers, clients, passengers, service users or others, and provide solutions accordingly.

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make independent operating decisions

Make immediate operating decisions as necessary without reference to others, taking into account the circumstances and any relevant procedures and legislation. Determine alone which option is the best for a particular situation.

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manage financial risk

Predict and manage financial risks, and identify procedures to avoid or minimise their impact.

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organise aircraft maintenance

Organise arrangements for aircraft maintenance and repair activities; communicate with engineering centres.

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patrol areas

Patrol a designated area, watch out for and respond to suspicious and dangerous situations, and communicating with emergency response organisations.

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perform risk analysis

Identify and assess factors that may jeopardise the success of a project or threaten the organisation's functioning. Implement procedures to avoid or minimise their impact.

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prepare transportation routes

Prepare routes through the addition or subtraction of routes, making changes to route frequency, and changing the service span of routes. Adjusts routes through providing additional running time to routes, adding additional capacity during periods of overcrowding (or reducing capacity during periods of low passenger numbers), and adjusting departure times in response to changes in circumstances along a given route, thereby ensuring efficient use of resources and achievement of customer relations goals.;

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respond to customers' inquiries

Answer customers' questions about itineraries, rates and reservations in person, by mail, by e-mail and on the phone.

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run preventive simulations

Run preventive audits or simulations with new signalling systems. Assess operability and detect flaws for improvement.

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supervise crew

Supervise and observe the behaviour of employees.

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write work-related reports

Compose work-related reports that support effective relationship management and a high standard of documentation and record keeping. Write and present results and conclusions in a clear and intelligible way so they are comprehensible to a non-expert audience.

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