Airline pilots have the services of large support staffs and consequently perform few nonflying duties. Pilots employed by other organizations such as charters or business operators have many other duties. Some pilots are instructors. A few specially trained pilots are examiners or check pilots. They periodically fly with other pilots or applicants to make sure that they are proficient.
Aircraft pilots check equipment and controls before takeoff.
By law, airline pilots cannot fly more than 100 hours a month or more than 1,000 hours a year. Most airline pilots fly an average of 75 hours a month and work an additional 120 hours a month performing nonflying duties. The majority of flights involve layovers away from home. When pilots are away from home, the airlines provide hotel accommodations, transportation between the hotel and airport, and an allowance for expenses. Airlines operate flights at all hours of the day and night, so work schedules often are irregular.