Standard Calls Philosophy
Quote from Denti [Yesterday, 21:16]:
Well, if the PF is handflying he of course doesn't dial in the altitude cleared and doesn't point to it, its the PM in that case while the PF replies.
[Unquote]
Glad you mentioned that. That’s why I deliberately avoided using “PF” and “PNF” (or “PM”) in my post. But we understand each other. Thanks for your calm response − fly with you any time…
Quote (2) from Denti:
It is probably the last remainder we have from having been a BA company at one time (long long ago now), they forced it on us that way, however it actually works. From my observation colleagues do not reply without checking, rather they omit the reply if they dont have a look at the selection done by the other (which can be annoying since you have to keep your finger there until they do). It often enough happens that there is not the usual "checked" but rather a "umm, didn't he say something else?" in which case we get a confirmation from ATC of course.
// Reading back the cleared altitude would probably be better, but im not so sure there either as i listen to the clearance as well and can just reply whatever i heard which of course is nothing but the same crosscheck we do by checking and talking up if the dialed in value isn't correct. In the end if someone doesn't do his job i will fly solo at some point…
[Unquote]
Am wondering if your long-departed BA trainers may not have explained the basic philosophy very well. The idea is that an ACTION or verbal PROMPT by the first pilot leads to a crosscheck and response (often delayed by other contingencies) from the second pilot. A prompt must not merely spoonfeed the response: a thought process must be required. If not, the response is nothing more than a worthless kneejerk.
Ultimately, of course, we rely on the professionalism (integrity) of anyone saying anything in a cockpit. If the responding pilot chooses merely to parrot the altitude he has just heard ATC give; instead of reading what he sees on the PFD/ADI display, or FCU altitude window (in either case, AFTER the setting pilot has removed his/her hand from the setting knob) − then that person should not be occupying a multi-crew cockpit.
In the case of the first pilot setting a new altitude on the FCU, this is an ACTION-prompt that would almost invariably follow immediately after an ATC clearance. No verbal or visual prompt should be necessary. If the second pilot is busy with another task (e.g., follow-up ATC call) his response-call will be delayed. The first pilot is well aware of this, and will continue duties − not nag the second pilot into a hurried response by pointing, or whatever. In due course, the second pilot will make his call. If he forgets, the first pilot can choose a quiet moment to make a verbal prompt. This must not spoonfeed the response. Something like “Check set altitude?” (or merely “FMA check?” on an A320) will do the job.
Chris
Last edited by Chris Scott; 10th September 2008 at 11:09.
Reason: Minor clarification in penultimate para.