PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - Pre-Departure Flight Deck Chaos

amber 1 · 17th September 2008, 01:05

My pet bug-bear is the numerous disruptions for trivial reasons while doing pre-departure checks. Recently, while setting up the FMC, I noted six interuptions and most of them were to sign some unimportant piece of paper to keep the bureaucrats happy. After each interruption, you turn back to the FMC and say "Now where was I again?" It's a right pain in the back-side.

I find the whole pre-departure thing the most stressful part of the whole operation. You are talking to dispatchers, agents, cabin crew, engineers, ATC, the FO, head set operatives, etc......and some times all at the same time! And trying to get the checks done. And signing bits of paper. And keeping an eye on the slot. And welcoming pax on board. And doing several other things.

I reckon that it's only when you have finally pushed back with the engines started and the tow bar disconnected that you can finally relax and get on with enjoyable bit of the job, ie. flying the aeroplane.

OK, rant over.

17th September 2008, 01:05	#8 (permalink)
amber 1 Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: UK Posts: 31	My pet bug-bear is the numerous disruptions for trivial reasons while doing pre-departure checks. Recently, while setting up the FMC, I noted six interuptions and most of them were to sign some unimportant piece of paper to keep the bureaucrats happy. After each interruption, you turn back to the FMC and say "Now where was I again?" It's a right pain in the back-side. I find the whole pre-departure thing the most stressful part of the whole operation. You are talking to dispatchers, agents, cabin crew, engineers, ATC, the FO, head set operatives, etc......and some times all at the same time! And trying to get the checks done. And signing bits of paper. And keeping an eye on the slot. And welcoming pax on board. And doing several other things. I reckon that it's only when you have finally pushed back with the engines started and the tow bar disconnected that you can finally relax and get on with enjoyable bit of the job, ie. flying the aeroplane. OK, rant over. Last edited by amber 1 : 17th September 2008 at 01:15.