ummm the modern airbus series' (the A320 family as well as the A330/340 and A380) have control law's, your mistaken if you think the plane without the automatics enaged can still fly itself. The sidestick is not a conventional control system in theory, as the sidestick is used to command a 'g' load. Allowing the stick to return to neutral commands no G loading, allowing the aircraft to maintain its current pitch and roll, NOT straight and level as you suggest. Of course the controls act the same as a Boeing, in the sense that moving the stick left will make the airbus roll left, but to stop the roll, from what I understand, you just need to neutralise the controls, and the aircraft autotrims to maintain the pitch and roll. Also since the airbuse controls your throttles, you dont have to worry about the power either
The whole system allows the pilot to use the aircraft to its maximum potential, and won't let you past the flight envelope. I Agree with Jamo that the sidestick being on the left shouldn't present a problem to any Captain. It would be bold to say it would be more un-natural to control the aircraft from the F/O's side as all students are taught to fly from the LHS
Unless you know of some career First Officer courses? lol
and Ozcan, if you feel the need to use both hands on the control yoke, you're over controlling. Especially in a light aircraft! Were you taught fingertip control?
If your a PPL you may need to book some hours with an instructor and learn fly with your fingertips
you dont need to hang onto it for dear life! your strapped in!
using one hand, and a lighter touch a) Allows your right hand to use other controls as well as your throttle, and b) Using a lighter touch will make your life eaiser, especially on approach
Not having a go you understand, just friendly advice from one aviator to another
AT