When does flight duty time officially begin for a pilot?

Flight duty time officially begins for a pilot when the pilot reports for a flight. This marks the start of their responsibilities, which include preparing for the flight, attending briefings, and conducting pre-flight checks. It encompasses all duties that the pilot must undertake leading up to takeoff, ensuring that they are ready and fit for the flight operation.

This definition aligns with regulatory frameworks which often delineate duty time to ensure safety and compliance with rest requirements. It clarifies that even before physically boarding the aircraft, the pilot is on duty and is responsible for the safe operation of the upcoming flight.

Starting flight duty time at the point of reporting provides a clear and consistent measure for determining rest periods and managing overall workload, which is crucial for maintaining operational safety and pilot well-being throughout their duties.