Which member of the flight crew is second in command?

The First Officer serves as the second in command of the flight crew. This role is critical as the First Officer assists the Captain in operating the aircraft and is trained to take over the aircraft’s operation if the Captain is unable to perform their duties. The First Officer, often referred to as the co-pilot, undergoes extensive training and is equipped with the necessary skills to ensure that the flight runs smoothly and safely.

The Captain is the primary pilot in charge of the flight and holds the ultimate authority, while the Flight Dispatcher is responsible for flight planning and coordination but does not operate the aircraft. Flight Attendants, while essential for passenger safety and service, do not have flight operation responsibilities. Understanding these roles helps clarify the hierarchical structure of the flight crew, where the First Officer is designated as the immediate subordinate to the Captain.