Is it safe for pilots to fill paperwork during taxiing?
In professional aviation, time management and efficiency are critical. Pilots are expected to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, from managing flight systems to ensuring accurate documentation. One common situation that arises in both airline and corporate operations is whether the first officer (FO) can safely complete flight logs, load sheets, or other documents before takeoff. At first glance, it may seem like a harmless, time-saving task. But in reality, performing administrative work during the wrong phase of flight can create significant safety risks. This article explores the operational, regulatory, and human factors involved - providing a detailed guide for first officers and flight crews to manage this task without compromising safety.