Originally Posted by
SonicFlyer
What are the FO's other duties besides flying?
Tthe FO is responsible for restocking the catering, powering up the electrics on the aircraft, and obtaining clearances (then entering them in the FMS), as well as the initial preflight on the aircraft. Also after the Capt weighs the bags the Capt will then hand them up to the FO who will then store them in the baggage compartment. Once that is done the FO will then complete the weight and balance. After engine shutdown the FO will be first off the aircraft and once there are no passengers in seat 5 & 6 will open the cargo door. Once that door is open the Capt will then take the bags out of the baggage area and hand them down to the FO.
In case you're wondering what the Capt is doing during this time these are the Capts non flying duties. Obtaining the latest weather/notams, filing the flight plan, coordinating with the FBO for items needed (fuel, de-ice ect.), paying the FBO, sending the flight times to the FOC, making sure that the crew has the current trip sheet, insuring that coordinating with Customs (for both inbound & outbound countries) for International trips has been accomplished, ordering crew meal, meeting the passengers and taking them to the aircraft, doing a walkaround (making sure chocks are removed and fuel caps are secured) after the passengers are boarded, and finally giving the passengers the safey brief..