In aviation, what does "CA" designate?

The designation "CA" in aviation is widely accepted to stand for "Captain." This term refers to the pilot in command of an aircraft, who holds ultimate authority over the flight and is responsible for the safety of the aircraft, crew, and passengers. The captain's role encompasses not only the actual operation of the aircraft but also the management of the flight crew, decision-making during emergencies, and compliance with aviation regulations.

This understanding is rooted in the hierarchy of flight crew roles, where the captain is at the top, overseeing all aspects of the flight. The title conveys a significant level of experience and authority in the cockpit, distinguishing it from other aviation roles such as cabin attendants or co-pilot assistants, which focus on different responsibilities within the aviation industry. The terms "cabin attendant" and "co-pilot assistant" pertain to the support roles on board, while "commercial airline" refers to the type of operation rather than a specific designation of a crew member.