Airline Second Officer Salary
Commercial airlines in the United States and abroad are responsible for moving people and goods across the globe on a daily basis. A second officer working for an airline plays an important role in getting those flights safely from one point to another. The salary for a second officer may vary depending on his years of experience, the airline for which he works, and the number of hours he typically works.
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Second Officer Position Description
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In small aircraft, the flight crew may only consist of the captain and first officer. In large commercial airlines, the flight crew generally includes the captain, first officer, and second officer. Technically speaking, the second officer is third in command on commercial and non-military aircraft, according to aviation job site, AVJobs. The second officer is also known as a relief pilot or flight engineer.
Duties
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Second officer positions often only exist on certain large airliners where a three-person flight crew is required. The second officer, or flight engineer, is responsible for inspecting the aircraft and engine systems prior to takeoff. During the flight, the second officer continuously monitors the plane's instruments to ensure proper cabin pressurization, engine performance, and other crucial flight systems. The second officer may also step in as first officer in case of emergency. In some cases, the position of second officer may lead to a future position as first officer of a flight crew.
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Training and Education
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An airline second officer must be a licensed pilot who has completed a rigorous flight training program to earn a commercial certificate with an airline transport rating. In addition, the position typically requires the individual to complete extensive training in aircraft instrument ratings as well as specific ratings in multi-engine aircraft as required by the demands of the position and the type of aircraft flown. In most cases, airline pilots must also pass certain requirements for physical health and mental acuity before being offered a flying position.
Salary Expectations
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Earnings for a second officer may vary depending on whether the individual works as a full-time salaried employee, or on a part-time contract basis. Reports issued by the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate the median annual salary for pilots, copilots and flight engineers was between $111,680 and $114,400 as of May of 2008. Many airline pilots belong to unions that help regulate earnings and ensure the provision of adequate benefits such as insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans.
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References
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