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Old 11th May 2004 | 11:53
  #22 (permalink)  
FullWings
20 Anniversary
 
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 2,348
Likes: 840
From: Tring, UK
I used to fly a lot of visual approaches into airfields all around the world.

Now there is so much pressure from the company to stay IFR and fully automatic that most people I fly with are reluctant to go visual, even when it would make the job easier.

At the back of most peoples' minds is the 'friendly' chat with the flight manager: "So, why did you do a visual approach when an instrument one was available?" (not that this has ever stopped me, but...)

As has been pointed out many times in this thread, we (pilots) are slowly but surely losing the skillset required for safe, efficient visual approaches. If my opposite number is uncomfortable with the idea of a visual, then an instrument approach is what we shall do. The last thing I want to happen is "Look at me! aren't I good at this!" with the other guy on the edge of their seat.

From a training point of view, we don't teach visual flying anymore. Even circuits are done ZFT in the sim, and you can only see the runway for about 50% of the time, like circling approaches (don't get me started).

It's getting to the point where guys are having panic attacks if presented with a view of a runway which is not lined up in front of them with the requisite number of red and white lights (plus a LOC & G/S, of course)

I don't blame the individuals - how can you - but simply the way flying (esp. longhaul) is going these days.

Suggestions on a postcard.
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