As pilots, we sometimes stuff up.
A decision that is not the best, or a bad approach. Sometimes this happens in the sim or on a line check. There are many factors such as being tired or out of practice, but it happens.
When a stuff up occurs good pilots dwell on the situation for only a very brief time, then get on with the flight which is still going at 470 kts and using fuel at 6+ tonnes/hour. They dig themselves out of the hole. We all know pilots who dwell too long on previous decisions and have careers that have stalled. They live in the past and don't look forward to the future.
After the flight is over, the important thing is to analyze our stuff up, learn from it, and make sure we don't do it again.
1989 and the 49ers were stuff ups. The important thing is to analyze and make sure similar situations do not happen again.
CX pilots need a strong union. The company will always do what it wants to in the end, but a strong union can influence the final decision. A union does this by pointing out inconsistancies in any company proposal and proposing alternative points of view that company management may not have considered. Like a good Opposition Party in a democracy.
The HKAOA at the moment is not a strong union. Less than half of CX pilots are members. This has to change back to where over 90% are members.
Previously black-banned CX pilots should be actively encouraged to join the HKAOA. CX pilots who have resigned over the past 4 years should be actively encouraged to re-join. Both groups should be welcomed and encouraged to join the HKAOA without any penalty or animosity. Perhaps then other non-members may also feel inclined to join the HKAOA.
CX pilots need a strong union. One that has learned from its mistakes and is looking forward to the future.