PJ2:
If so, then how does Philpat's entreaty to "fix - this", a statement with which I'm sure we all agree, get actioned once and for all? Much as we all would like it, crews (pilots/maintenance) can't be just told/implored to "follow SOPs" and that's the end of it. I know from previous posts you don't dismiss investigation or safety programs, so what am I missing
Your inputs are always informative, intellegent and pragmatic and I have nothing but respect. I will stand corrected as necessary. I think I actually made my point in the earlier referenced post, but to summarise, the issues I saw were as follows:
- It is taking far too long to reach a sensible conclusion, balancing the consequences of being too quick or too slow.
- Boeing should ensure that all operators of MD8X aircraft are compliant with TOCW check requirements ahead of EVERY TO in the light of this and several prior incidents. Has this been done and, if not, why not?
- Boeing should ensure that the MMEL addresses the relay issues involving the RAT probe. Has this been done and, if not, why not?
I understand that there are legal issues and that these these issues have already, largely, been communicated to lines. However, it still seems to me that the set of circumstances involved would justify repetition for the sake of clarity and the possible saving of lives in future.
Wise (Retired) pilots such as yourself have already concluded that, as good airmanship, a final check of the "Killer items" whilst lining up for TO, whilst not required as an official check, makes very good sense. If I were a pilot I would have learned from this thread that this can save your own life and those of passengers. Why is this not a formal final check? Many lines also now mandate that Flaps be deployed after push back and before taxi commences. Why nor ALL lines?
Those are my only issues and, as I said, I am learning from this and stand ready to be corrected.