First Officer

First Officers prepare aircraft for flights. During flights, First Officers navigate the aircraft across safe terrains and weather with the Captain. After landing, they complete post-flight and shut-down checklists.

First Officer Job Description

Conduct thorough post-flight and shut-down checklists to ensure all systems are functioning.

Perform comprehensive safety sweeps of flight decks and crew rest areas.

Monitor weather patterns, air traffic, and other flight conditions to detect any hazardous or risky situations that may arise during the flight.

Address and manage any passenger issues or disturbances.

Operate the aircraft during all phases of flight, including take-off, cruising at altitude, and landing.

Review and assess flight plans, weather reports, Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), and other relevant documentation prior to departure.

Note

Aside from having good eyesight, First Officers will also need good hearing skills to work effectively in spite of ambient aircraft and passenger sounds.

What you should know about First Officer jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

You will need to be a confident communicator to give clear and confident instructions to both passengers and your fellow Crew members.

Key Advice

You are expected to work at varying, irregular hours, to accommodate the flight schedule.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
To embark on careers as First Officers, you will need to have achieved an A-level qualification or a diploma, laying the foundational educational requirement for this prestigious role.

Begin your professional journey by securing a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), which mandates candidates to be a minimum of 18 years of age at the time of application.

Aspiring First Officers must possess exceptional visual acuity, with a minimum unaided vision of 6/60, which must be correctable to 6/6, ensuring the highest standards of safety and performance are met.

Prospective First Officers should demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills, as effective teamwork and clear communication are essential in the cockpit environment.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a First Officer career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Aircraft Cruise Operations

Masterfully manage flight systems and efficiency during the cruise phase of flight.

Aircraft Dispatch

Expertly coordinate flight plans, fuel loads, and compliance for safe dispatch.

Aircraft Emergency Management

Proficiently handle in-flight emergencies and execute safety protocols.

Soft Skills

Communication

Effectively convey information clearly and listen actively to others.

Decision Making

Be skilled in making timely, informed decisions under pressure.

Problem-Solving

Expertly identify issues, analyse solutions, and implement fixes efficiently.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What do First Officers do when they detect a hazardous flight condition?

Depending on the situation, they will decide their next step. For example, if there were a bad storm at their destination airport, they would judge if the situation allows for a safe landing at the airport; if not, they would make plans to land at a nearby airport or strip of safer land.
How long does it typically take to become First Officers?

The certification and training process can take up to three years! To become First Officers, they will have to receive their Commercial Pilot License (CPL), graduate from Pilot school and train as a Second Officer.
What are the key considerations for First Officers regarding crew resource management and effective communication?

First Officers prioritise crew resource management by fostering effective communication, teamwork, and decision-making within the Flight Crew to ensure a coordinated and safe operation of the aircraft.
What do First Officers do when they detect a hazardous flight condition?

Depending on the situation, they will decide what their next step will be. For example, if there were a bad storm at the airport of their destination, they would judge if the situation allows for a safe landing at the airport; if not, they would make plans to land at a nearby airport or strip of land that is safer.
How do First Officers handle challenging passengers?

In the event of disruptive passengers who persist in causing trouble despite warnings from the Cabin Crew, First Officers have the authority to make the decision to offload the passenger.