During a supplemental air carrier flight, who is responsible for obtaining information on meteorological conditions?

The responsibility for obtaining information on meteorological conditions during a supplemental air carrier flight rests with the pilot in command. This is grounded in the overarching principle that flight safety is primarily the pilot's responsibility. The pilot is tasked with maintaining situational awareness, which includes being informed about current and forecasted weather conditions along the flight route and at the destination.

The pilot in command must assess how weather factors could impact the flight, make informed decisions regarding flight paths, and determine if alternate routes or airports may be necessary. Although aircraft dispatchers and operational staff may provide support and additional information, the ultimate authority and responsibility for flying the aircraft and ensuring its safe operation, including awareness of meteorological conditions, rests with the pilot.

While aircraft dispatchers and the director of operations play important roles in the overall flight planning and operational decisions, it is the pilot who must synthesize all available information, including weather data, to ensure a safe flight, thus underlining their critical role in flight safety measures.