Behind the scenes in aviation: everything you need to know about visiting the cockpit of an airliner

Diving into the world of the cockpit: post-9/11 visiting arrangements

With the intensification of security measures since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, getting into the cockpit of an aircraft has become a much more complex operation. What was once an accessible privilege on commercial flights is now subject to severe restrictions.

Back to Toulouse, with a visit to the A320 cockpit. Thanks to the Air France captain! #SpaceBourget17 #PAS17 #AirFrance pic.twitter.com/WCUEPt3e9V

- SpaceBlog (@Spaceblog11) June 25, 2017

The pre-2001 period: a cockpit open to passengers

A look back at a bygone era: up until the dawn of the new millennium, airlines sometimes offered travellers, especially the very young, the chance to visit the cockpit and watch the fascinating ballet of take-off and landing. In those days, the crew could do this with the captain's approval. However, stricter air safety regulations have put an end to this tradition.

Obtaining cockpit access: what's involved?

Today, to hope to gain access to the cockpit, you'll need to go through several stages and meet certain conditions.

Use your connections

• If you happen to know a member of the crew or someone working in aviation, this relationship could facilitate your request for access to the cockpit, often referred to in the jargon as the "cockpiston".
• However, in the absence of such knowledge, you have to dare to ask the question, with tact and discretion.

The letter to the captain: a formal approach

It's a good idea to write a letter addressed to the captain. This gives the crew a better idea of your request before they meet you, and gives them time to think it over. In your letter, it's important to introduce yourself and clearly express your interest in aviation. Give this letter to the cabin crew at the start of the flight: if the captain is receptive to your approach, the purser may invite you to visit the holy of holies during the flight.

Direct request tactics

There's also the more daring method of the verbal request, adopted by the most enterprising travelers, who simply ask the purser or pilot about the possibility of making an appearance in the cockpit. While this audacity may be noticed, it can also be misinterpreted, resulting in an outright refusal.

American airlines: a closed-door policy

It is important to note that no attempt will be made to contact US carriers. The strict security protocols put in place after the attacks on the World Trade Center prohibit any in-flight access. Even an inappropriate proposal from a pilot could result in a ban on entering US airspace.