Aircraft pilots and air traffic controllers

plans flight route, calculate fuel consumption and optimum flying height and obtains information on weather and other conditions, such as cargo distribution

AI flight planning platforms (e.g., Lido/Flight by Lufthansa Systems, Jeppesen FliteDeck) can automatically calculate optimal routes, fuel loads and altitudes using real-time weather and NOTAM data with minimal human input.

monitors fuel consumption, air pressure, engine performance and other indicators during flight and advises pilot of any factors that affect the navigation or performance of the aircraft

AI-powered cockpit monitoring tools continuously analyse engine data and fuel burn, surfacing alerts and recommendations, though pilots must interpret and act on this information in context.

studies flight plan and makes any necessary adjustments

AI flight management systems (e.g., Honeywell's advanced FMS) can flag suboptimal routes and suggest adjustments, but pilots must review, approve and apply judgment about real-world conditions.

maintains radio contact and discusses weather conditions with air traffic controllers

AI weather analysis tools (e.g., The Weather Company's Aviation Weather) synthesise meteorological data and flag risks, but real-time radio communication and human negotiation with ATC remain central.

directs the movement of aircraft and maintains radio and/or radar or visual contact en-route to its destination, in and out of controlled airspace or into holding areas ready for landing

AI-enhanced radar and conflict detection tools (e.g., Eurocontrol's SESAR systems) assist controllers in tracking aircraft and predicting conflicts, but final authority and communication rest with human controllers.

gives landing Instructions to pilot and monitors descent

Automated landing guidance systems (ILS, autoland) and AI decision-support tools assist with sequencing and descent monitoring, but controllers and pilots retain responsibility for safety-critical calls.

directs or undertakes checks on engines, instruments, control panels, cargo distribution, fuel supplies, aircraft's stability, response to controls and overall performance

AI-assisted diagnostics (e.g., onboard health monitoring systems like Boeing's AHM) can flag anomalies, but physical inspection and human judgment on airworthiness remain essential and legally required.

accompanies pupil on training flights and demonstrates flying techniques

AI flight simulators (e.g., CAE's AI-enhanced training platforms) can provide scenario-based practice and performance feedback, but in-flight instruction requires human mentorship, communication and real-time correction.

directs or undertakes the operation of controls to fly airplanes and helicopters, complying with air traffic control and aircraft operating procedures

Autopilot systems handle routine flight segments, but active piloting during takeoff, landing, and abnormal situations requires irreplaceable human dexterity, situational awareness and decision-making.

handles emergencies, unscheduled traffic and other unanticipated incidents

AI can surface procedural checklists and historical incident data during emergencies, but handling novel, high-stakes, time-critical situations requires uniquely human judgment, experience and adaptability.