RAT-5,
The focus and priority of 12+ Hours of Long Haul flying (as you put it), is 'management' of the operation rather than a handling/stick & rudder emphasis.
Your assertion that short haul 737/320 flying is more challenging than long haul flying is ill conceived. There are an array of issue's, threats and considerations that need to be constantly assessed and threat management strategies implemented. The knowledge base required is also greater.
A lot can happen, but more importantly, change over a 12 to 14 hour flight. You will realise this if and when you fly long haul someday. Usually, people who say short haul is harder than long haul are those that most wish they could be long haul pilots!
It is true that high density short haul ops will improve handling skills, however, long haul pilots are nowdays considered 'managers' and certainly my management style will not and does not allow my F/O's to hand fly too much of a departure or arrival, unless required due abnormals.
The safest and most efficient way to fly wide body long haul ops is to make FULL use of the AFDS. The same is and should be true in short haul. Regardless of how well one can manipulate the flight controls, there is no substitute for experience, something some 500 hour cadets falsely believe they have plenty of.
Wide body long haul International ops is REAL experience and highly desirable.
Last edited by 00seven; 26th Jul 2007 at 19:16.
Reason: Add text head