Kore Aviation - Many people ask the same question when they step onto an airplane or start flight training: what title do you call a pilot?
Is it captain? Is it first officer? Do you say aviator or pilot? And what about female pilots?
Aviation titles are more than just labels. They reflect responsibility, experience, certification level, and role in the cockpit. Whether you are a passenger, student pilot, aviation enthusiast, or someone exploring a flying career, understanding pilot titles helps you speak the language of aviation with confidence.
This article explains every major pilot title, how those titles differ across airlines and general aviation, what a female pilot is called, and how pilot ranks work in real world operations.
Common Pilot Titles Explained
Let’s start with the foundational question: what title do you call a pilot? The title varies by role and flying environment.
1. Captain
When most people think of a pilot in command of a large aircraft, they imagine a Captain. This title applies to a pilot who is legally responsible for the safety of the flight and all aboard. In airlines, the Captain sits in the left seat and, regardless of gender, is addressed as Captain followed by their last name or full name when introducing.
The Captain holds the highest authority on board. They make final decisions, handle communications with air traffic control, and ensure all flight operations are safe and efficient. Many commercial carriers require thousands of hours of flight time before a pilot can hold this title.
When you are referring to a pilot with this experience and responsibility, using the title Captain shows respect and accuracy.
2. First Officer
In airline operations, the pilot flying the right seat is called the First Officer. The First Officer shares flight duties with the Captain, assists with communications, and contributes to decision making. In many cases, the First Officer has similar flight skills as the Captain, but less total flight time and responsibility for final authority.
When asked what title do you call a pilot who is not the Captain, Title First Officer is appropriate. Some airlines refer to them informally as co‑pilots, but official documents and professional settings use First Officer.
3. Pilot in Command
The title Pilot in Command (PIC) is a legal and operational term. It applies to the pilot who has the final authority and responsibility for the aircraft, the people on board, and the flight. In many commercial flights this is the Captain.
In general aviation, a private pilot flying solo or with passengers is also the Pilot in Command. This title is essential in regulatory language and is used in flight logs and official records.
4. Private Pilot
If you are learning to fly or want to fly your own aircraft for personal use, you become a Private Pilot after completing FAA exams and flight hours. So when someone asks what title do you call a pilot who flies for personal enjoyment and not commercially, the answer is Private Pilot or simply Pilot.
Many private flyers enjoy the simplicity of this title because it reflects the certification they hold while flying general aviation aircraft.
Also read: How to Become a Private Pilot? Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide
5. What Is a Female Pilot Called?
If you are curious about what is a female pilot called? the simple answer is that a female pilot is called a pilot. The profession uses gender neutral terms in most modern aviation contexts. Women in aviation prefer this because it reflects professional equality and precision.
In some social settings or historical contexts, you might hear the term woman pilot or female aviator. But in professional flight operations, the title is simply Pilot, Captain, or First Officer, exactly the same as for any other pilot.
This reflects broader changes in many industries toward inclusivity and gender neutral language. Women fly airliners, helicopters, fighter jets, corporate jets, cargo planes, and private aircraft, and each is referred to by their formal aviation title like any other pilot.
Titles in Military Aviation
Military pilots typically carry titles that include their rank followed by pilot or aviator. For example, a Naval Aviator might be addressed as Lieutenant Pilot Smith or Captain Pilot Jones, depending on rank and branch.
Titles vary widely between countries and military branches, but all include elements of rank and function. In conversations or formal introductions, always include the rank followed by the role.
Here are some examples:
| Branch | Example Title |
|---|---|
| Air Force | Major and Pilot Johnson |
| Navy | Lieutenant Pilot Davis |
| Army Aviation | Captain Pilot Nguyen |
| Marine Corps | First Lieutenant Pilot Carter |
Footnote: Titles often reflect a military rank first, followed by the pilot duty or qualification.
Why Titles Matter in Aviation
Titles in aviation serve multiple purposes. They communicate authority, clarify responsibility, and show respect for training and expertise. They are not used casually because the aviation environment relies on clear communication, especially when safety is involved.
When someone asks what title do you call a pilot, the underlying reason is often respect and clarity. Calling someone Captain rather than just pilot recognizes their role and responsibility, and using the correct term in formal documents can have legal implications.
Informal and Social Titles for Pilots
In casual conversation, people might use terms like aviator, flyer, or pilot friend when referring to someone who flies. These informal titles are fine in day‑to‑day chat, but they are not official in a training or professional context.
Aviation enthusiasts might call someone an aviator to express admiration or highlight a connection to the history of flight. But when precision matters, especially in formal writing or introductions, your title should reflect certification and role.
How Aspiring Pilots Should Think About Their Future Title?
If you are asking what title do you call a pilot because you are considering flight training, it helps to set clear goals. Many student pilots start with private pilot certification, which gives the title Pilot or Private Pilot.
As you accumulate hours and training, you might become a First Officer with an airline, and later a Captain, which is one of the most respected titles in aviation. If you are joining a flight school, knowing these future titles helps you focus on milestones and career paths.
Also read: Will We Need Pilots in 10 Years? A Clear Look at Aviation Careers to 2036
Training Pathways and Title Progression
Here is a simple look at common pilot title progression as training and experience grow:
-
Student Pilot
A pilot who is learning and has not yet earned a license. -
Private Pilot
A licensed pilot who can fly single engine aircraft for personal use. -
Commercial Pilot
A pilot certified to fly for compensation or hire. -
First Officer (Airline)
The pilot who sits in the right seat, assisting the Captain. -
Captain (Airline)
The pilot in command with responsibility for the flight. -
Flight Instructor
A pilot certified to teach others.
This progression reflects how a pilot earns not only additional skill and certification, but also professional titles that carry expectations and responsibilities.
Tools That Support Pilot Communication and Identity
Part of being a confident pilot is having gear that supports clear communication. This matters whether you are labeled Student Pilot, First Officer, or Captain. Clear radio communication keeps everyone safe and informed.
Check out Kore Aviation premium and affordable headsets. Designed for durability and clarity for flights.
Table of Pilot Titles and Typical Roles
| Title | Typical Setting | Role Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Student Pilot | Flight School | Learning to fly and build hours |
| Private Pilot | General Aviation | Flying personal aircraft |
| Commercial Pilot | Professional | Flying for compensation |
| First Officer | Airline | Assists Captain in flight |
| Captain | Airline | Pilot in command |
| Flight Instructor | School/Training | Teaches student pilots |
This table gives a quick visual sense of how titles align with roles and responsibilities across aviation careers.
Also read: What Age Do Most Pilots Retire? Understanding the Rules & Trends
Frequently Asked Questions About Pilot Titles
1. Can a female pilot be called Captain or Pilot?
Yes. Female pilots hold the same titles as male pilots, such as Captain, Pilot in Command, First Officer, or Private Pilot. The title does not change with gender.
2. Is co‑pilot a correct title?
In many airline contexts, co‑pilot refers to the First Officer. However, the official term in most operations and documents is First Officer.
3. Do military pilots use the title Captain?
They can if their military rank is Captain. Otherwise their rank is used first, followed by their role as pilot or aviator.
4. What do you call a commercial pilot in conversation?
In conversation, referring to them as Captain or Pilot followed by their last name is respectful and accurate.
5. Does a private pilot need a specific title?
Private pilots are usually called Pilot or Private Pilot. In casual settings, they can be called pilot without certification confusion.
6. What title does a flight instructor use?
Flight instructors are often called Instructor or CFII or CFI, depending on their certification. Their role is to teach and guide student pilots.
Summary
Pilots are called by titles that reflect their role and responsibility. Captains lead flights, First Officers assist, private pilots fly for personal use, and student pilots are in training stages. Female pilots hold the same professional titles, and military aviators use rank with pilot identification. Knowing what title do you call a pilot helps you communicate professionally and understand aviation careers better.
Whether you are curious about pilot titles or aiming to become a pilot yourself, understanding how to call a pilot correctly builds confidence and shows respect for the profession. If you are preparing for flight school or lessons and need dependable gear, explore headsets and pilot equipment at Kore Aviation. Clear communication and comfort are essential parts of being a pilot at any stage.