A Seat To Jump For

When jumpseating, it's possible to run afoul of rules and etiquette, so it’s worth becoming familiar with the process early on.

Sam Weigel

Friday, September 01, 2023 at 11:45 AM ET

Verified

Jumpseat privileges are typically available days after receiving your employee badge, yet some employers do a rather minimal job of instructing new hire pilots in their use. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

Jumpseating is a pilot-specific travel benefit allowing off-duty pilots to occupy extra cockpit or cabin seats, or available passenger seats, for commuting or personal travel, even on fully booked flights.
It is considered a professional courtesy extended by the captain, requiring pilots to adhere to specific etiquette, dress codes, alcohol policies, and professional conduct, as jumpseaters are considered additional crew members.
The process involves "listing" through various channels, verifying credentials, and obtaining the captain's permission, with a priority system determining who gets a seat when multiple pilots are present.

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Three months ago, I wrote a V1 Rotate primer to the wild and wonderful world of non-revenue travel, a benefit that all U.S. Part 121 passenger airlines and many freight carriers offer their employees, including pilots. This week, we’re going to talk about another form of travel benefit that is specific to pilots and is offered by every Part 121 carrier and some Part 135 operators.

Jumpseat privileges are typically available mere days after receiving your employee badge, yet some employers do a minimal job of instructing new hire pilots in their use. Jumpseating is an area where it’s very possible to step on toes and even get yourself in trouble if you run afoul of the rules and etiquette, so it’s worth becoming familiar with the process early on.