If a flight engineer notices a mechanical irregularity during flight, who is responsible for the maintenance log entry?

In aviation, the responsibility for making maintenance log entries typically falls to the pilot in command. This is because the pilot in command is the ultimate authority for the flight and is responsible for the safety of the aircraft and its crew. When a flight engineer notices a mechanical irregularity during flight, it is essential for this irregularity to be documented for future reference and to ensure that proper maintenance procedures are followed.

The pilot in command is trained to know the protocols for addressing mechanical discrepancies and has the authority to determine the appropriate actions to take, which includes entering the issue into the maintenance logs. This promotes accountability and a clear chain of responsibility regarding the aircraft’s airworthiness.

While other personnel, such as the flight engineer or maintenance crew, play vital roles in operational safety, the final decision and responsibility for logging the discrepancy rests with the pilot in command. This practice ensures a standardized approach to maintenance and facilitates effective communication regarding aircraft status between flight crews and maintenance operations.