Known as the “command center” within the confines of both commercial and private passenger jets, the left seat in the cockpit is always occupied by the captain or Pilot in Command. This seat holds immense importance, but one might wonder why the Pilot in Command prefers the left seat over the right. This question caught my attention recently, and so, I decided to explore and illuminate the reason behind this intriguing preference for the left side of the cockpit.
The tradition of the Pilot in Command (PIC) occupying the left seat in the cockpit is deep-rooted in the aviation industry. The reasons are varied, but it often comes down to practicality and efficiency. It all started when aviation was in its early days, and many aircraft had tandem seating. When flying alone, the PIC would usually take the back seat to maintain the aircraft’s weight and balance. But with the emergence of side-by-side seating, the PIC started to occupy the left seat. There are several theories behind this, and each contributes to the unique dynamics of airplane operation.
Understanding the Left Seat/Left Traffic Theory
One predominant theory is centered on the left seat/left traffic concept. Being positioned on the left side of the cockpit allows the PIC to have a clearer view of the runway when following left traffic patterns. Interestingly, the left-turning tendencies of an airplane, facilitated by elements like P-factor, symmetric thrust, spiraling slipstream, and torque, make it easier for the aircraft to veer left than right. This early observation by pilots led to the establishment of the left traffic pattern.
Deciphering the Slipstream Effect
Most single-engine aircraft have a clockwise rotating propeller. As the propeller spins, it influences the surrounding air to rotate as well. This action creates a spiraling flow of air that impacts the left side of the vertical stabilizer, causing the aircraft to yaw left. With the aircraft’s natural inclination to veer left, it’s much easier for pilots to make left turns, thus necessitating more rudder force to veer right. This left-leaning bias is why the left traffic pattern is the standard traffic pattern at most airports.
Borrowing Design from Automobiles
Another theory that explains the left seat preference is its connection to automobile design. In American cars, the driver’s seat is on the left. Given that airplanes and automobiles developed concurrently, it is plausible that design ideas were shared between them. Moreover, the ignition, magnetos, and various instruments are usually placed on the left side of the cockpit, favoring a left-seated PIC.
Prioritizing Hand Dominance
A significant factor that supports the PIC’s left seating is the consideration for hand dominance. With the throttle usually located in the middle of the panel, the PIC sitting on the left side allows their dominant right hand to operate the throttle. This ergonomic design facilitates efficient aircraft control.
An additional benefit of having the PIC on the left side of the cockpit is the improved view of the terminal building during taxiing. This enhanced view helps the PIC ensure wingtip clearance from the terminal, avoiding any potential collisions.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
