pilot

One who operates or is licensed to operate an aircraft in flight.

One who, though not belonging to a ship’s company, is licensed to conduct a ship into and out of port or through dangerous waters.

The helmsman of a ship.

One who guides or directs a course of action for others.

The part of a tool, device, or machine that leads or guides the whole.

A pilot light, as in a stove.

A television program produced as a prototype of a series being considered for adoption by a network.

To serve as the pilot of (a plane, for example).

To steer or control the course of: synonym: guide.