Crossword Genius

Half a pint for plenty of steersmen (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pilots

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'steersmen' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'half a pint for plenty' is the wordplay.
'half a' suggests halving the letters.
'for' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'plenty' becomes 'lots' (I've seen this before).
'pint' cut in half is 'pi'.
'pi'+'lots'='PILOTS'

'of' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pilots that I've seen before include "They are licensed to fly aircraft" , "They operate aircraft" , "They fly planes or guide ships" , "Fliers or guides" , "Flies" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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