Wouldn't a simple, inscrutable smile (even if through gritted teeth whilst silently mouthing the word 'to$$er') have disarmed the situation?
Given that we have only the available facts as reported on this thread to be able to comment (I'm sure there are two full sides to the story), this still sounds very much like the captain was over-reacting to being embarrassed. A more light-hearted approach would have almost certainly resulted in a better outcome, IMO.
I'm sure lots of skippers would have chosen to handle this better, and, without wishing to denigrate the pilot in this instance, I know which personality type I'd prefer to be flown by.
Last edited by WeatherJinx; 12th November 2003 at 04:01.