Article 52. Aircraft commander

The aircraft commander can only be a person who has the specialty of a pilot and, in the prescribed manner, has the right to independently control this type of aircraft.

The aircraft commander manages the activities of the crew, ensures discipline and order on the aircraft, compliance with the rules of flight and usage of the aircraft, and also takes the necessary measures to preserve the aircraft and ensure the safety of people and property on board.

The aircraft commander has the right to:

a) make the final decision on the departure, flight and landing of the aircraft, as well as on the termination of the flight and return to the point of departure or on an emergency landing. In the event of a clear threat to flight safety, as well as in order to save the lives of people on board the aircraft, such a decision can be made by deviating from the flight plan, instructions of the air traffic services authority and flight assignment, but if possible, in accordance with the established flight rules. The aircraft commander is obliged to immediately inform the air traffic services authority of the actions taken; under the direct control of which the aircraft is related;

b) within its competence, give orders to any person on board of the aircraft that are subject to unquestioning execution;

c) take all necessary measures, including the use of weapons, to persons who, through their actions pose a direct threat to flight safety and do not obey his/her orders. Upon arrival of the aircraft at the nearest aerodrome, the aircraft commander may remove such persons from the aircraft, and if the act containing signs of a crime has been committed, transfer them to the relevant authorities;

d) drain fuel in flight, dump luggage, cargo and mail, if necessary to ensure the safety of flight and landing of the aircraft.