Probably the most impressive cabins on this list are aircraft cockpits, full of instruments and controls that allow pilots to navigate and operate the vehicle safely. 

This area is designed for the pilot and co-pilot to keep essential controls within easy reach, ensuring that they can quickly react to any situation that arises. Every button, switch, or lever has a purpose, and only those who master them are fit to fly. 

Its two main functions are to provide the pilot with a good angle and to make control mechanisms as accessible to them as possible. The section operates like an office where aviators receive all the data via screens. 

Fortunately, the most crucial elements of the cockpit are usually similar from one aircraft to another. Even if a pilot has never flown with, for example, a Boeing 777, they could still identify the most basic control functions and swiftly get the hang of the plane. 

We’re going to discuss a few of the basics that can be found in an aircraft’s cockpit control panels, starting with the ignition control systems. This essentially is a key for starting a car. In bigger aircraft, instead of a key, there are a variety of switches that start the gas turbine engine.

The steering wheel in such vehicles is called a yoke. Just like a traditional one, it allows the pilot to move the aircraft up and down, left and right. Conventionally, they’re shaped in a W or a U. A smaller aircraft can have a side stick instead of a yoke, which is lighter and is usually located on the floor of the cockpit. 

The vehicle’s power is controlled by what is called a throttle. It’s the equivalent of a gas pedal in the car and is either a push-pull device or a leveler. The pilot can add or take away power by adjusting the amount of fuel and air mixture via the throttle. Next to it usually are “controllable” and “mixture” that also help to regulate fuel intake while flying. 

Another interesting device located in the cockpit is an anemometer. It measures the vehicle speed relative to air, which is important for maintaining control during the flight. Turn coordinator, for example, helps the pilot make calculated turns, which ensures stability and efficiency mid-air. Of course, aircrafts are also supplemented with various GPS and radio systems that help to navigate and communicate in the sky. 

Thankfully, the larger part of steering is taken care of by autopilot. Humans are usually primarily responsible for takeoff and landing and might make any corrections if necessary, like in cases of bad weather. The program calculates the optimal altitude and speed using data such as weight, fuel quantity, destination, and takeoff. All of this information is entered into the system before the flight. 

Safety is ensured in every detail of the cockpit, and glass is no exception. It’s approximately 2.5 inches thick and strengthened with various chemicals. The glass contains several layers and can withstand temperatures from -76 degrees to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. In very extreme situations, it can crack but the fracture only happens in the first layer. Normally, the glass doesn’t break under typical conditions. 

The cockpit doors are also meticulously protected with a security system that allows the pilots to access them only with a password. In case of attack, they are made to withstand gunfire and small explosives. They also lock themselves from the inside to prevent any intrusion for the rest of the flight. Pilots need to follow strict emergency procedures and are in constant training that provides them with the necessary skills to handle unexpected events and ensure safety.