Assertiveness in the flight deck isn’t about authority or ego, it’s about safety, clarity, and effective flight deck communication. In Day 2 of the 31-Day Safer Pilot Challenge 2026, MzeroA explores why a clear, positive exchange of flight controls is critical for pilots, instructors, and students. Whether one is flying with another certified pilot, an instructor, or even a nervous passenger, knowing exactly who is flying the airplane can prevent confusion and reduce risk, especially in challenging conditions like low IFR.
Why Assertiveness Is Essential in Pilot Communication
Before the engine even starts, both pilots should clearly understand who is the pilot flying and who is the pilot monitoring. This conversation often happens naturally, sometimes as simply as deciding who takes the left seat, but its importance can’t be overstated. Assertiveness in aviation means communicating clearly and confidently without being rude or confrontational. When expectations are set on the ground, there’s far less chance of hesitation or misunderstanding in the air.
How to Execute a Positive Exchange of Flight Controls
A positive exchange of flight controls should always include clear, specific language. Phrases like, “you have the flight controls” and “I have the flight controls” remove confusion. Vague statements such as “I’ve got it” can be misinterpreted and lead to dangerous assumptions. Backing up verbal confirmation with a visual check, adds an extra layer of safety and confidence.
Handling High-Stress Situations in the Flight Deck
Assertiveness becomes especially critical during high-workload or stressful moments. If a pilot needs to adjust a seat, handle a checklist, manage a distraction, a deliberate exchange of controls ensures the airplane remains safely flown. In instructional settings, assertiveness is even more important. Students can freeze up, and passengers may unintentionally grab the controls. In these moments, instructors must be prepared to take flight controls firmly, clearly, and professionally to maintain safety.
Brief It, Practice It, and Normalize It
One of the best ways to avoid tension or confusion in the flight deck is to brief expectations ahead of time. Discuss how flight control transfers will sound and what’s expected when they happen. Practicing the exchange on the ground, or even during the briefing, can make it second nature in the air. As emphasized in the video, chair flying isn’t just for maneuvers; it’s also for flight deck communication and crew coordination.
Safer Pilot Challenge 2026
The Safer Pilot Challenge is our yearly vow to help you become a smarter, safer pilot, and it runs all month long every January, wrapping up with our livestream on January 31! We’re giving away prizes throughout the month, so be sure to watch each YouTube video and leave the specific comment to enter for a chance to win. Are you committing to 31 for 31 days of the Safer Pilot Challenge? If you love our free content, just imagine what our full courses can do for you. We’d love to welcome you into our ground schools! Start today with a free 2-week trial and see if MzeroA is the right fit for your aviation journey!