Definition
A appropriately rated pilot who occupies a control seat in an aircraft for the specific purpose of watching for traffic and other hazards while another pilot operates the aircraft under a view-limiting device (hood or foggles) to practice instrument flying in visual conditions. Under FAR 91.109, a safety pilot is required whenever a pilot is performing simulated instrument flight, must hold at least a private pilot certificate with category and class ratings appropriate to the aircraft, and the aircraft must have dual controls (with limited exceptions).
Plain English
A second qualified pilot who acts as the eyes outside the cockpit while the pilot in the other seat practices flying by instruments only. Because the practicing pilot is wearing a vision-limiting device that blocks their outside view, the safety pilot keeps watch for other aircraft and obstacles.
Context Anchor
You see this term in instrument training, hood work, and spatial disorientation demonstrations where one pilot may not be able to safely watch outside.
Why Pilots Care
Enables safe practice of instrument flight and unusual attitude recoveries without the risk of disorientation leading to loss of control.
Intuition Check
A safety pilot is not just a careful pilot or a helpful passenger. In this context, it means a qualified pilot assigned to monitor safety while another pilot practices with limited outside view.
Example Sentence 1
Before donning the hood for approach practice, she briefed her safety pilot on the planned maneuvers and traffic watch responsibilities.
Example Sentence 2
Before the exercise began, the safety pilot confirmed the area was clear of clouds and other aircraft.