Commercial Pilots.

This job has 24 core tasks. We went through 15 of them, one at a time.

Task by task, from the work Commercial Pilots actually do. How we describe AI use in each task is our own read of it, not a measurement of whether AI can replace the job.

1. TASK 01

   Consider airport altitudes, outside temperatures, plane weights, and wind speeds and directions to calculate the speed needed to become airborne.

   AI DOES

   Calculates takeoff speeds from altitude, temperature, weight, and wind inputs instantly

   YOU DO

   Verify the numbers match real conditions and catch anything the sensors might have missed

2. TASK 02

   Obtain and review data such as load weights, fuel supplies, weather conditions, and flight schedules to determine flight plans and identify needed changes.

   AI DOES

   Gathers and summarizes weather, fuel, weight, and schedule data into a clear briefing

   YOU DO

   Apply judgment and take legal responsibility for every go/no-go decision

3. TASK 03

   Choose routes, altitudes, and speeds that will provide the fastest, safest, and smoothest flights.

   AI DOES

   Suggests optimal routes, altitudes, and speeds using weather data and flight planning software

   YOU DO

   Apply real-time situational awareness and final decision-making authority in the cockpit

4. TASK 04

   Write specified information in flight records, such as flight times, altitudes flown, and fuel consumption.

   AI DOES

   Pulls instrument data and fills in flight log fields automatically

   YOU DO

   Verify accuracy and sign off on official records

5. TASK 05

   File instrument flight plans with air traffic control so that flights can be coordinated with other air traffic.

   AI DOES

   Auto-fills route data, checks NOTAMs, flags errors, and submits draft flight plans

   YOU DO

   Verify real-world conditions and sign off with professional accountability

6. TASK 06

   Plan and formulate flight activities and test schedules and prepare flight evaluation reports.

   AI DOES

   Drafts flight schedules, pulls route and weather data, and auto-fills evaluation report templates

   YOU DO

   Apply your flight experience and safety judgment to approve every plan and report

7. TASK 07

   Monitor engine operation, fuel consumption, and functioning of aircraft systems during flights.

   AI DOES

   Reads sensor streams, spots unusual readings, and surfaces alerts on cockpit displays

   YOU DO

   Stay in the seat, weigh all context, and decide the right action in the moment

8. TASK 08

   Plan flights according to government and company regulations, using aeronautical charts and navigation instruments.

   AI DOES

   Pulls weather, suggests routes, checks airspace restrictions, and flags regulation conflicts

   YOU DO

   Review all data, apply real-world judgment, and take legal responsibility for the final plan

9. TASK 09

   Teach company regulations and procedures to other pilots.

   AI DOES

   Generates lesson plans, summaries, and practice questions from regulation documents

   YOU DO

   Share real flight experience and read the room when pilots are confused or need more coaching

10. TASK 10

    Order changes in fuel supplies, loads, routes, or schedules to ensure safety of flights.

    AI DOES

    Pulls weather data, fuel calculations, load reports, and route options to highlight what needs attention

    YOU DO

    Own the final call — you hold the legal authority and accountability for every safety decision

11. TASK 11

    Start engines, operate controls, and pilot airplanes to transport passengers, mail, or freight according to flight plans, regulations, and procedures.

    AI DOES

    Manages autopilot routing, monitors systems, and flags anomalies during cruise flight

    YOU DO

    Keep your hands on the controls for takeoff, landing, and any unexpected situation

12. TASK 12

    Coordinate flight activities with ground crews and air traffic control, and inform crew members of flight and test procedures.

    AI DOES

    Drafts checklists, transcribes ATC messages, and flags key flight data

    YOU DO

    Keep final say on all live communication and safety calls

13. TASK 13

    Request changes in altitudes or routes as circumstances dictate.

    AI DOES

    Flags weather, traffic conflicts, and route options on flight management displays

    YOU DO

    Trust your real-time cockpit awareness and direct ATC communication to make the final call

14. TASK 14

    Use instrumentation to pilot aircraft when visibility is poor.

    AI DOES

    Monitors flight data, alerts on deviations, and assists autopilot systems

    YOU DO

    Stay in the cockpit, make real-time safety calls, and hold legal command authority

15. TASK 15

    Perform minor aircraft maintenance and repair work, or arrange for major maintenance.

    AI DOES

    Helps look up maintenance manuals, checklists, or approved repair vendors

    YOU DO

    Physically inspect, handle tools, and make safety calls on the aircraft