Lovefly Blog - Dad Flies Plane to Spain

Myth versus Reality!

If you are a person scared of flying, you definitely spotted this story recently:

Family's easyJet holiday flight is delayed - so dad flies the plane to Spain himself...

There are a few things to say about this scenario because they weren't mentioned in the articles and news that came out...  

Myth:

So, anyone who is a pilot can fly the aircraft if they happen to be there?  How safe is that?!

Reality:

• The pilot worked for EasyJet so was familiar with all its policies and procedures
• The pilot had his airside ID with him so he could go to the aircraft as crew not just as passenger
• The pilot was trained and current on that actual aircraft type (you can't just fly any aircraft)
• The pilot was rested in line with national standards and airline regulations
• The pilot would still have had to do all the normal briefing and checks before they took off
• Wearing jeans or wearing a uniform has no effect upon flying ability!  (as far as we know)

'Hi there, this is your undercover Captain Speaking...'

Hope that was useful context?

Lovefly Team

P.S. Apologies to any commercial pilots reading this blog.  We know you hate the shortened version of 'Plane' and prefer Aircraft or Aeroplane... Just reporting it as it is written.