Pilot suspended for allowing trainee as co-pilot

Jet Airways had suspended the pilot of one of its flights and another cockpit crew for two and half months for allowing a trainee pilot to take over from co-pilot to land the plane in Mumbai, endangering all those onboard.

Jet Airways had suspended the pilot of one of its flights and another cockpit crew for two and half months for allowing a trainee pilot to take over from co-pilot to land the plane in Mumbai, endangering all those onboard.

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Aviation regulator DGCA had asked the Jet to take action against the pilot and the chief of its flight safety in connection with the incident that had taken place about four months ago, official sources said.

A Jet Airways spokesperson said the action against the pilot and another member of the cockpit crew was taken based on "appropriate investigations and a confidential report".

The commander, who had asked the co-pilot to make way for the trainee pilot on board, was suspended for two and half months. However, he resumed flying after serving out his suspension period.

DGCA had asked the Jet Airways to take action against the chief of its flight safety in connection with the incident.

The airlines spokesperson said "we have been in discussion with DGCA. They are completely satisfied with the steps taken".

"In line with international practises on enforcing safety, a voluntary and confidential reporting system exists in Jet Airways for all its employees", she said.