I am fortunate to have at my side some of the best professionals in the business. My copilots have pointed out the radio calls I’ve missed, the checklist items I’ve overlooked and the wrong taxiways I’ve almost turned onto, and in general, offered diplomatic suggestions to correct the errors of my ways. They have flown flawless approaches and taken command in my absence. But mostly, my first officers have been the locknut of the bolt that holds the cockpit together. And for the month of January, I had the honor of flying with a bona fide hero.
Jumpseat: Flying with a Hero
Key Takeaways:
- The article highlights the crucial role of copilots in aviation safety and professionalism, focusing on a specific individual, Kent Thorpe.
- Kent Thorpe is revealed to be the heroic relief copilot on American Airlines Flight 63 on December 22, 2001, directly involved in subduing Richard Reid, the infamous "shoe bomber."
- Thorpe's quick and assertive actions, including discovering the explosive device and maintaining control in the cabin, were instrumental in averting a catastrophic terrorist tragedy and providing valuable intelligence post-9/11.
- The author, having flown the same route with Thorpe 15 years later, expresses deep admiration for his former copilot and all others, emphasizing their often unsung contributions to flight safety.
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