Our Code of Conduct
To ensure that everything runs as smoothly as possible on shared flights, we have created a 10-point code of conduct for pilots and passengers that you can expect others in the community to follow. In this way, everyone can enjoy the safe and secure flying we are all so passionate about.
Passenger Code
The pilot is in charge
The safety of any flight depends on the pilot. Their choices and instructions should always be followed. Always listen to the pilot at every stage of the flight, what they say is for everyone’s safety.
Weather can affect your plans
Weather can make your flight special, or it can cause it to be cancelled completely and require rescheduling. Pilots know the limitations of their licenses and are qualified to assess weather and the effect it could have on your flight. If the pilot decides that the flight would be unsafe due to the weather, please accept that choice in good spirit as the best for everyone’s safety.
Never touch the instruments
If you are sitting in the co-pilot’s seat, never touch any of the instruments or controls. Again, listen to the pilot’s instructions, but be sure to sit back and enjoy the flight!
Weight matters
The smaller, light airplanes you fly in are very sensitive to weight. The pilot must make weight and balance calculations before the flight, based on the weight you enter for yourself and luggage. Making sure those weights you provide are accurate should go without saying, but in addition, don’t move luggage around during the flight, as this can upset the balance of the plane.
Be careful what you bring with you
Only bring luggage that is necessary, it helps the pilot, if you have any questions about a specific item, ask the pilot. In addition, do not bring anything illegal onto the plane, you will be refused travel and could potentially put the pilot in legal jeopardy along with yourself.
We are a friendly community
Flight cost sharing is all about embracing the wonder of flight, so keep everything friendly. Your pilot loves flying, so if you have any questions don’t be afraid to ask. That goes for any nervousness you may feel too, tell your pilot, talk through it with them, you will be surprised how much it can help you enjoy your flight experience.
Be Punctual
Flights have to be precisely planned, so always make sure you arrive on time, so your pilot can stick to their schedule.
Pay your share of the costs and no more
The idea of flight sharing is that you pay for your share of the flight costs, it’s a great deal for you, and also a great deal for your pilot. It is illegal for a private pilot to make a profit on a cost shared flight, so costs must be shared between all on board the plane.
No Smoking
All flights are non-smoking
Have Fun!
Your flight is a unique experience, so make sure you relax and enjoy it, and don’t forget to grab some pictures along the way, you will treasure them forever!
Pilot code
Take control – It’s your decision that matters
Everything that takes place on the plane and the flight are under your control. Just because you have passengers, do not feel pressured to fly when you feel uncomfortable doing so.
Tell your passengers about the flight conditions
Explaining the weather is crucial, you are required to explain the weather forecast to your passengers the day before the flight. You can cancel your flight at any time if you feel it is required, never allow the presence of passengers to cause you to fly when you feel it is not wise to do so.
Cost sharing and no more
A condition of your private pilot license is that you never make a profit from your flight activity. Flight sharing remains legal as long as the share of costs is maintained. Always ensure that you have contributed to the flight in line with cost sharing rules set out by the competent authority.
A friendly Community, a friendly flight
For many of your passengers, this could be their first time in a light aircraft, so be welcoming and friendly with all your passengers to help put them at ease and quell any nervousness. Be clear with your instructions as well, but don’t be afraid to show your love of flight and encourage questions, you may be flying with a budding new pilot.
Always carry your licenses
While The Ginger Private Pilot will validate your license, it is a requirement that you have it with you at all times during the flight itself.
The aircraft you advertise is the aircraft you use
Always use the airplane described in the flight description for the flight itself. If there is a need to change the aircraft involved for any reason, please amend this as soon as possible on your flight posting.
Insurance for everyone on board is mandatory
While aero clubs are responsible for insurance coverage of their aircraft, it is important to make sure that the aircraft you are using for any shared cost flight is insured for both yourself and your passengers. We reserve the right to ask for insurance proof at any time to comply with this requirement.
Fly Responsibly
With so many of your passengers likely to be first time flyers in a light aircraft, fly smoothly and avoid unnecessary manoeuvres to give them the best experience possible during the flight.
Give your passengers some leeway with timing
Getting out to a private airfield and flying on a light aircraft is a new experience for many of your passengers. We ask them to be punctual to ensure that you can keep to your planned schedule, however, for those not used to this it can be easy to get their timings wrong. Allow an extra 30 minutes for passengers beyond the agreed time for such accidental issues. Before the flight, be sure to give them as much information as possible regarding directions and where to find you at the airfield.