Thanks Tank'. Now we're getting some where.
Command training
is one thing, but unfortunately that's not what we're talking about. Training is fine, but it is the lack of training that most concerns me and quite a few other Captains. You state that
..."just let the F/O do the flight planning, order fuel, liaise with other staff and make operational decisions..." Is this part of a formalised process or is it left to the individual initiative of the Captain on the day?
Secondly, you presume correct. The F/O's at REX do conduct Take-offs and Landings. Usually on a leg for leg basis.
Finally, you state that the ICUS goes towards ATPL hours for eventual command. You only need to log 150 hours ICUS as part of the requirements for the ATPL. Indeed the ATOG proposal uses the ICAO annex 1 to justify this. The requirements of the LCAOC however demands at least 500 hours Multi-IFR. A completely unrelated requirement!
I'm not trying to be difficult. I am honestly attempting to get a handle on exactly what ICUS means at QANTAS and how it differs from what is being proposed by ATOG!
I'm pretty sure we are talking about two vastly different scenerios.