Two stages to rote responses:
a)you respond before checking,then self-correct almost immediately.Probable cause:distraction from low level of alertness,sleepy.Everyone has done it.Important to stop,think and recognize it as it can be a prelude to (b)
b)you respond and dont check(visual,tactile).Probable cause:distraction from pressure,stress,being rushed.
SOP's-know them,respect them but take them for what they are,a guideline,a framework.Never split the cockpit in half and work exclusively to your area of responsibility.This sing-song of steps/call-outs from push to shutdown is all very well but its only purpose is to facilitate a smooth operation between 2 strangers.Actual safety is directly proportional to airmanship and judgement alone,NOT SOP compliance.Even if the SOP says x or y doesnt need to be checked every flight,let your good judgement decide that,not the book.Ive witnessed a check pilot remonstrate with a skipper for checking a non-mandatory item.The skipper didnt back down and he was damn right.
Justme69,
Im not a MD pilot but I believe the procedure is set/call FLAPS 15/MAX POWER,lower nose below stick-shaker and avoid secondary stall.Two things were against them:
a)startle factor
b)probably rarely trained
Thanks once again for your updates.