K. Problems in Training Pilots for Initial Command
The relationship between the instructor captain and the initial command trainee is
remarkably unique from that of normal flights and cross monitoring during these nights
tend to be one sided. To secure safety in flight during such training, the overall flight
is monitored by the flight engineer. An efficent educational effect can be achieved
through the tlight engineer's assistance.
The workload of the captain in the two man crew complement not only increases in the
training environment because of the absence of the flight engineer but the level of safety
is lowered.
| "During poor weather conditions, the captain was able to communicate with ATC while the aircraft was holding because the copilot could fly the aircraft and the flight engineer could monitor the fuel, watch outside and share the operational workload. This is why a third pair of eyes is definitely needed during initial command training." |
(an extract from a 1984 questionaire)