What is the role of a safety pilot during simulated instrument flight?

The role of a safety pilot during simulated instrument flight is to ensure safety and act as a lookout. This is critical because, while one pilot is flying under simulated instrument conditions with their vision obscured (such as with a view-limiting device), the safety pilot maintains visual contact with the aircraft’s surroundings and is responsible for monitoring the flight path. The safety pilot can assess for any potential hazards or conflicts with other aircraft, helping to avoid situations that could lead to accidents.

While providing flight instructions, assisting with navigation, and communicating with air traffic control are important aspects of flying, they are not the primary responsibilities of a safety pilot in this context. The focus is squarely on maintaining a safe operating environment while the other pilot practices instrument flying skills.