"Guarding" the controls while on autopilot
Things never cease to amaze one. When the automatics are engaged with the aircraft below a radio altitude of 2500 ft, an operator in this part of the world requires that the PF actually rest one hand on the thrust levers and the other on the control wheel "following through" on the automatic pilot and autothrottle movements. This is termed "guarding" the controls.
Presumably this is in case the automatics suddenly give up the ghost.
One would think if this is a valid reason for "guarding" things, then the same policy should apply if the PF is hand flying below 2500RA and the PNF should have his hands on the controls as well as the PF and also over the PF's hand on the thrust levers just in case the PF should suffer sudden incapacitation. What a strange way to fly an aeroplane.
Most pilots dislike having the other pilot "hovering" over the controls at any time.
The 737FCTM under Cat 3 Operations recommends guarding the controls on approach and through landing.
How do you define the term "guarding". Does that mean hands actually grasping wheel and thrust levers in a claw like grasp - or does it mean hands resting relaxed on knee ready for a quick take over?