The people

A team of mechanics checks every plane before it takes off. They are called the ground crew, and although you don't often see them, they are very important to the safety of planes in the air. They fill it up with fuel and check that the engines, wheels and other important parts are working properly.

The people who run an aeroplane when it is in the air are called the crew. This includes the pilots who fly the plane and the cabin crew who give you food and drink and look after you on your flight. There are always two pilots on aeroplanes. This means that if one is ill, the other will be able to take over flying the plane. A good idea, isn't it!