Those who affirm that "real" flying skills don't matter seem to conveniently forget that:
1/ For all the sim training in the world, learning to use (or should I say
monitor) systems, all the whizz-bang, flashy electronics can (and occasionally
do) fail. What are you left with then? Basic flying skills, stick and rudder stuff going sometimes as far back as single-engine CPL.
2/ Sims are great. Airline-type CAT D sims are even better. They get more realistic as time goes by. But they are a training help, NOT a substitute to actual flying. Doing, say, an NDB hold on a stormy night in a Seminole/Duchess/Seneca/Cessna 310 etc.
IS training for heavy turboprop/jet operations.
3/ A nearby FTO's Chief Ground Instructor recently wrote to a number of European airlines asking them their opinion regarding the Multi Pilot Licence. I saw their answers: most (they include regionals, cargo outfits, "legacy" and low-cost airlines) aren't interested in the MPL and are not willing to contemplate it as part of their recruiting plans.
4/ Most airlines work on a seniority basis. How do you think would current FOs, who have trained under the traditional system, view MPL-trained newbies that would be seen not only as lacking real flying experience, but also as jumping the queue?
5/ To use a common comparison, would you let a surgeon that would only have practiced on simulators perform brain/heart surgery or any other difficult surgical procedure either on you or a loved one? Methinks not.
Cheers
