What is a "safety pilot"?

A safety pilot is a licensed pilot who serves as a supervisory pilot while another pilot operates an aircraft, particularly in situations where the pilot is flying solo and may not have the benefit of a second set of eyes in the cockpit. This arrangement is crucial when flying under visual flight rules (VFR) in conditions where a solo pilot might not be able to safely operate the aircraft alone, such as when practicing maneuvers that require a lookout for traffic or other potential hazards.

The role of the safety pilot encompasses observing the flight environment and providing input for safety, particularly if the pilot flying solo is practicing low visibility or simulated instrument conditions. This arrangement creates an extra layer of safety, ensuring that both pilots are vigilant about situational awareness and can respond to emergencies or unexpected issues effectively.

Other options refer to different roles within aviation but do not provide the same specific function as the safety pilot. While conducting preflight inspections, co-piloting, or instruction can involve oversight and technical skills, they do not capture the essence of the safety pilot's primary role, which is focused primarily on the aspect of safety during solo flight operations.