Hey folks -

Quick question. My ANG unit is using a civilian carrier (not sure which one...last time it was ATA) to get to an upcoming deployment location over-seas, I'm curious if it would be ill-advised, or frowned upon to see about riding jump seat for perhaps one of our landings / takeoffs.

Post 9/11 is this even feesible?



Thanks!

Not feasible under Part 121. Not sure if that's how mil charters are operated though. It never hurts to ask.

How does jumpseating in the cockpit work? I just got on with a 121 and have yet to start my training, but am wondering how/who you ask to jumpseat upfront? Are you only allowed to jumpseat in the cockpit when there are no available seats in the cabin or is this open whenever you request it?

If your carrier is CASS approved, then you are able to ride in the cockpit with other CASS approved carriers if there are no seats in the cabin. If your airline is not in the CASS system then you can ride as a "Cabin Only" jumpseater in the cabin. Some airlines offer "unlimited" jumpseats, some restrict jumpseating to only one or two. Also you are able to gain "Cockpit Access" via your code share partners, i.e. American Eagle on AA. Check with your carriers jumpseat committe, they can fill you in on the details pertaining to your carrier.

Thanks for the help

Hey F15,

I used to work for ATA, however, I did the domestic schedule stuff. I do remember being told by the guys that did the MAC stuff that guys used to get to sit in the jumpseat. I think that has come to an end because of the TSA. Go figure - it's a flight full of only military folks, and the TSA says that you guys aren't safe and the cockpit door has to be closed. You can try asking the crew, but I think you may be out of luck.

First of all.....you need an airline ID.

I found it really amusing when I deployed post 9/11 to a South American country that we had to go through metal detectors prior to boarding our military charter aircraft. Especially since on the other side of the screening area, we picked up our M-16s, rucksacks, and bayonets...

Things that make you go, hrmmmmm.

The best thing to do is contact your company's jumpseat coordinator. Ways to access cockpit jumpseats really should not be discussed on this very public forum. Try asking your jumpseat coordinator, they'll brief you on all you need to know.

Don't forget the basics too, by keeping in mind that it is a priviledge extended to you by the PIC. It's never a foregone conclusion that you will get to ride, and from an attitude standpoint, it's always best to approach it as a favor.