Can Pilots Read While Flying?

The question of whether pilots can read while they are in the cockpit can be a bit complex. Once, it was quite common for pilots to read newspapers or other forms of reading material during flights. However, with the ever-evolving regulations and the increasing importance of situational awareness, the answer has changed.

Literacy Among Pilots

Most pilots in countries like the United States are literate. Therefore, they can and do read various materials while on board. These can include manuals, charts, and other essential documents provided to them either via electronic devices such as iPads or traditional paper copies. While reading, pilots focus on the information that is crucial for the operation and safety of the flight.

Electronic Delivery of Information

Modern aviation companies deliver a vast amount of information to pilots electronically. For instance, my company ensures that pilots have access to approximately 10,000 pages of documentation that they can refer to before or during a flight. These documents can range from procedural manuals to weather reports, all designed to assist pilots in making informed decisions.

The key is for pilots to quickly locate the information they need, and they do so by reading the sections that are pertinent to their current situation and then returning to monitor the aircraft's performance. For example, when flying, pilots may consult charts, approach plates, or flight plans, but these are always work-related tasks that contribute to flight safety.

Pre-9/11 Era

Pre-9/11, the atmosphere was less stringent. For instance, I do remember an occasion when the flight deck door was opened briefly, and one of the pilots was seen reading a broadsheet newspaper. This incident was possible because the regulations were less enforced at the time. However, with the increasing emphasis on safety, such practices are now discouraged and considered problematic.

Current Regulations and Duties

Today, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and similar bodies have stringent regulations regarding pilot duties. Commercial pilots are responsible for monitoring the operation of the aircraft, communicating with air traffic control, and ensuring that the aircraft completes its journey in accordance with the given instructions. Recreational reading is strictly prohibited during these duties to maintain situational awareness.

When in the air, pilots spend their time focusing on essential tasks, such as navigating the aircraft, following air traffic control instructions, and maintaining a constant watch on all instruments and systems. Attempting to read irrelevant material would be a significant distraction and could compromise safety. Pilots are not given the luxury of leisure reading because their job requires constant attention to their duties.

Modern Tools and Procedures

To ensure that pilots have the necessary information available, modern aircraft are equipped with Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs) which store manuals and charts. These devices do much of the work that would have been done with paper manuals, but they are still subject to strict guidelines. For example, no reading of non-aviation-related material is allowed.

Instead of reading, pilots use the time to catch up on important tasks, such as navigating the aircraft, communicating with air traffic control, and making necessary adjustments based on weather reports and air traffic instructions. They also use an electronic flight navigation app on their smartphones to stay updated and informed.

In conclusion, while pilots can read work-related materials during flights, recreational reading is not permitted. The focus is on maintaining situational awareness, ensuring the safety of passengers and crew, and adhering to all safety protocols. The next time you fly, remember that every action taken by the pilot is for your safety, and any reading they do is done within the bounds of their duties and responsibilities.