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Old 11th Jan 2004, 04:42
  #25 (permalink)  
FJJP
 
Join Date: Aug 2000
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forget, I'm afraid your assertion, although a good idea, is just a bit too simplistic. Yes, there are many systems and bits of kit that would not be needed. However, to decide the kit to 'decommission', there would have to be considerable thought given to the possible deployment patterns for the future. For example, if there was the need to fly the jet in the airways structure, there would have to be the legal minimum of nav kit installed/serviced. You can't just buy a hand-held GPS and fly the Atlantic (and why not, if the US display organisers will pay!).

Similarly, the heat fatigue associated with high summer temperatures, combined with the stress of flying a display (or several in the day), would make the conditioning system essential rather than desirable. As for flying without an AEO - no sane Vulcan pilot would even start the thing without him at the panel. You must remember that the ac flew over 150% of its design life, and as such there were increasing electrical/hot air incidents not covered by the books. Latterly, many an AEO had to pour over the 'Red Book' to solve an odd fault. No, the Vulcan was designed for a full crew - not enough automation and switchery at the front to make a pilot-only operation safe. [Modern airliners are specifically designed for such ops].

I'm sure the Vulcan team will work out what not to service to keep costs/workload to a minimum. You sound optimistic about the project - good. We need more people like you with your positive frame of mind.

Regards, FJJP
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