Proficiency:
I did not fly for two years, yet stepped into a B777 and had no issues with training. I had the same results when I went from Boeing to Airbus after being out with a hip replacement for 18 months. Why the success? Because, I know what I need to know. But I also how to study outside the box. The truth is, most pilots who have been in the flying game for awhile, know what they need to know.
The problem is, not everyone knows how to study. I was reminded of a chapter I had placed in my novel, Flight For Safety, during my A330 days, where Darby’s simulator partner, a new hire, was having problems. She told him how to study. These tips within this novel are things you can do while you’re grounded waiting to fly again.
Regulation:
The FAA has provided forgiveness on medicals. They’ve provided forgiveness on the use of oxygen masks. Perhaps they should provide forgiveness on recency’s. Airlines worldwide could adapt their initial online training programs to develop a recency program. They could create an in-depth systems and limitations review, and an interactive procedures module for all phases of flight and multiple approaches.
Each pilot facing a recency issue, could keep their brain alive with operational performance while at home. I’ve been using these technique for years, and I can assure you as a doctor of aviation that I actually get more from my home preparation than I do from doing three simulator landings, one of which is an autoland.
