Back on topic. (happy mods)
The Q400's are a complete furphy.
Quote:
"That will solve a few crewing problems, with a high capacity AOC, REX can put their cadets straight into the LH seat with no requirments to have any multi command time!"
Just a tad simplistic shooter.
The introduction of a new type, the training, the dissimilar crewing, HCAOC hoops, etc, etc, etc... The cost... Big millions! My sources inform me that it isn't even something being considered.
Also, the multi IFR command time is only one of the requirements for these ops. REX's AOC requires at least 2000 hours total aeronautical experience for command. Many senior, and most of the new F/O's don't even come close. As only 50% of flight time by Co-pilots can be logged towards this requirement, the bypasses are starting to bite! And the Cadets? At least 5 years after graduation just to satisfy this one requirement!
The pressure is now building on a number of levels.