Guys,
Sorry, to clarify:
If the PM is off frequency, either due to handling/ATIS/company/engineering etc, and a level change, or heading instruction is given, we are allowed to make the change on the MCP, but not execute it. When the PM returns he is to verify the change on Box 1, only then it can be executed.
I'm with you
anotherthing I feel rather offended that we can't be trusted to hear and readback an instruction properly and need someone to check it for us! This procedure is very trying, and so far I don't think many pilots are picking up on it and actively implementing it - it's one of these Line Check SOP's.
We're not supposed to leave the freqency unless it's for operational or safety reasons. But we get notes telling us not to contact the handlers outside 25miles because of frequency crossover we're stuck between a rock and a hard place.
I'm not dutch either
Horgy