Who is referred to as the Pilot in Command (PIC)?

The Pilot in Command (PIC) is the individual who holds the ultimate responsibility for the safety and operation of the flight. This role is critical, as the PIC is the final authority in all matters concerning the flight, including navigation, communications, and adherence to regulations. This designation ensures that there is a clear leader on board who can make decisions swiftly in situations that may affect the safety of the aircraft and its passengers.

While the co-pilot assists and supports the PIC, their role is not the same as that of the PIC, as they do not bear the overarching responsibility for the flight. Similarly, the aircraft maintenance manager oversees the maintenance of the airplane but does not have operational authority during flight. Air traffic controllers play a crucial role in managing air traffic and providing instructions to pilots, but they do not have command over the aircraft itself. Hence, the Pilot in Command is distinctly defined as the individual responsible for flight safety, making this the correct choice.