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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cap-mission-pilot-commander

On a CAP search and rescue mission aircraft, who is the aircraft commander?

The mission pilot, who is responsible for crew and aircraft safety.

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  1. The mission observer
  2. The mission pilot ✔
  3. The mission scanner

Why: The mission pilot flies precisely so scanners have the best chance to find the target. The pilot is responsible for the safety of the crew and the aircraft.

Huh, didn't know that: CAP's aircrew text says a mission pilot's first and foremost duty is to fly the aircraft safely and proficiently.

The dad joke
Why was the mission pilot so calm? She was in command of her emotions.
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References

Answer: The mission pilot. The mission pilot flies precisely so scanners have the best chance to find the target. The pilot is responsible for the safety of the crew and the aircraft.

  1. CAP Mission Observer/Mission Pilot Reference Text www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/CAP_MO__MP_Ref_Text_Rev_Dec_2017_18C3F2D723FEA.pdf
    The SAR/DR Mission Pilot (MP) is the aircraft commander and is responsible for the safety of the crew and the aircraft.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. CAP Mission Observer/Mission Pilot Reference Text www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/CAP_MO__MP_Ref_Text_Rev_Dec_2017_18C3F2D723FEA.pdf
    The first and foremost duty of a mission pilot is to fly the aircraft in a safe and proficient manner
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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