Jumpseating is a professional courtesy among airline pilots, and one
of the best benefits
of being a pilot. It is used to commute to and from work and for
leisure travel.
The captain is the final authority as to who rides and
is not to be challenged for any reason. If denied a
jumpseat, say "thanks anyway" and try a different flight.
A growing number of airlines have been approved to use the Cockpit
Access Security System (CASS) to identify crewmembers and will let
them sit in their cockpit if the flight is full. Airlines that have
not been CASS approved will let you ride in the passenger cabin only
if there is an empty passenger seat. To sit in the cockpit, you must
be properly
dressed (business casual), and present your airline ID and passport to the gate
agent who will verify your identity and employment. Know your own
airline's code too, as this must also be input into the CASS system.
Some airlines will allow multiple, or "unlimited," jumpseaters, while
some only allow the amount of jumpseaters equal to the number of jumpseats in the cockpit.
Presently you may not sit in the cockpit of an airline on
international flights. You may only obtain a seat in the passenger
cabin. Some airlines will give you a first or business class seat,
and some won't. Keep in mind that most airlines who allow jumpseating
internationally require that you check-in 75 to 90 minutes prior to
departure in order to satisfy TSA requirements.
If you have a question or a problem with jumpseating around the
system, contact your own airline's jumpseat coordinator. Be prepared
with detailed information such as the date, time, airport, gate,
name(s), etc.
Common courtesy is a must while jumpseating. Ask the gate agent when
they would like you to board. Upon reaching the airplane, introduce
yourself to the lead flight attendant and ask if you may ask the
captain for a ride. Never bypass asking the captain, even if the agent
gave you a boarding pass with a seat assignment. And don't forget to
introduce yourself to the first officer and relief officer (if applicable) as well.
If sitting in the cockpit, comply with sterile cockpit rules and offer to help out
(monitoring ATC, scanning for traffic, passing beverages, etc).
Lastly, give the captain and first officer thanks for the jumpseat ride.
Always be the consummate professional while jumpseating. It is one of the most valuable
career benefits we have.
by Brigitte Lakah
UPS 757/767 Captain |
