Quote;
"I believe this is the reason for the ATOG clarification."
Fair enough JetA_OK, and far from argueing with you on that point, it is quite possible you are right. If this is the intention of the ATOG submission then it is possibly the most p!ss poor attempt at such that I think I have ever seen. The Author justifies the proposal by using some fairly spurious references to say the least.
Firstly He/She declares that the dramatic fall in airline recruits with the required Multi-Command hours is due to the emergence of single engine turbine equipment, effectively replaceing the traditional multi piston aircraft in G/A.
CRAP!
Secondly, He/She quotes that ICAO annex 1 allows for the logging of ICUS in this situation for the purpose of attaining a "Higher Grade of Pilot Licence".
D!CKHEAD! The proposal is aimed at allowing the candidate to log ICUS so they may qualify for the Multi-IFR requirement of the AOC. The term of a "Higher Grade of Pilot Licence" can only mean for an upgrade to ATPL, and as we all know, you don't require any Multi time for that!
Finally, He/She proposes that for a candidate to qualify to log ICUS, they must be able to satifactorily perform all the duties of the Pilot in Command (except taxiing) from the right seat. I love the way this sidesteps taxiing. I guess the skills required during this operational phase, along with the short term decision processes are not deemed to have any value. If that is the case, then why do we log block time, and not just wheels up/down? As well, does this mean that candidates will now be
- Starting engines
- Shutting down engines
- Performing the Captains cockpit setup
- Performing the Captains pre-flight duties
- Performing the Captains post-flight duties
- Making decisions and being responsible for the provisions of the MEL
- Signing the NOTOCS
- Etc, etc, etc....
Don't get me wrong guys, I want to see people advance as much as the next person, but this whole exercise is nothing short of bullsh!t! And not very good bullsh!t at that. Irrespective of what interpretation people have of a poorly written Reg'.
Our Tax dollars at work!