Flight engineers monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain airplane systems. The role has been eliminated with advanced computer equipment, but is still found in military flights and older equipment. Flight engineers need post-secondary education and enjoy working with technology and problem-solving. They have career advancement opportunities and can transfer skills to other areas. Many have completed retraining programs and now work in teams managing computerized systems.
There are three different types of flight engineer tasks: system monitoring, troubleshooting, and system maintenance. Flight engineer jobs were first created to assist the pilot and co-pilot in operating large airplanes. His main role was to monitor the equipment, manage the necessary processes and ensure that passengers were safe and comfortable.
The role of the flight engineer has been eliminated with advanced computer equipment. There are very few commercial flights in North America or Europe that require the services of a flight engineer. However, this role is still found on military flights and in nations using older equipment.
System monitoring is an important component of a flight engineer’s job. In this role, the engineer is responsible for checking engine speed, air pressure, internal heat, automatic functions, air quality and other key functions. A specialized console is used by the engineer to manage and monitor these systems.
In case of problems or equipment problems during the flight, the flight engineer is responsible for the preliminary investigation. If the problem escalates, standard procedure is for the co-pilot to take control of the plane. The pilot and flight engineer work together to resolve the issue. In this scenario, the pilot manages the process and the engineer completes the necessary tasks to try to solve the problem.
In the pre-flight routine, one of the flight engineer’s jobs is to check and maintain all primary and secondary systems. This includes a specific set of maintenance tasks and other functions designed to ensure the plane is safe.
People who report the most job satisfaction as a flight engineer enjoy working with technology, solving problems, and working independently. The level of available positions varies by industry and level of education. A minimum of three years of post-secondary education is required to qualify for a position in flight engineering.
Most flight engineer jobs have a wide range of career advancement opportunities available. Regardless of the industry where initial experience is gained, all skills are transferable to other areas. The only restriction on promotion is based on work experience.
Many flight engineers completed retraining programs as part of the transition. They learned new skills and found new jobs. The vast majority remained in the airline industry, but now work in teams managing and maintaining computerized systems. These roles build on skills learned as a flight engineer.
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