ANSA, I heard that overnights (nights away) were to be allowed for the ATCOs on their famil. flights, with some restrictions (which I’ve forgotten) on the max number of nights away allowed (probably one). But this was verbal – I haven’t seen anything in writing.
A group of senior pilots doing a CRM course late last year brought up the idea of re-introducing famil. flights with the Chief of Training and he agreed. The idea of getting you away with us on an overnight is that probably far more will be achieved over a (non alcoholic, of course) beer than will be on the flight deck during a quick out and back-er.
On the subject of close in holding, let me be the first to cast my vote in favour of the trial. Surely it would make things easier for the ATCOs too? It would certainly save the companies a fortune in fuel if we were allowed to remain clean until starting the final approach, (which never happens now), and it would completely do away with the present situation where you’re often left with no option but to drag it in with gear down and maintaining 3000’ from as far as 20 miles out. (Mod: can we make the thread into a poll?)
With all their carry-on about saving fuel, I can’t believe Emirates haven’t insisted on something like this idea years ago. Could it be that the people who keep urging us to save fuel at all costs very seldom find themselves arriving in Dubai in the midnight or 6am rush hour?