Does MPL threaten operational safety?
CASA proposed the Multi-Crew Pilot Licence (MPL) some time back, following an ICAO recommendation. It's now in the draft legislation stage, which is very concerning.
While the MPL is probably not a major issue for 3 or 4 crew ops, I have HUGE concerns with these inexperienced pilots being licensed to operated in the right seat of 2 crew ops. It's bad enough that new intake pilot experience levels are dropping, which is noticed in operations by all concerned. Add to that the fact that graduates from so-called cadet programs are placed into highly demanding regional operations to cut their teeth, where they make all manner of mistakes and are a constant burden to the skipper. What's gonna happen when MPL holders are in the right seat, and they've not even had ANY flying time, except in a simulator??? Why are airlines being forced to adopt the role of flying schools? Are airlines, particularly regionals, gonna be some form of craiche, where we send our kids to learn to fly???
MPL is ultimately gonna be another cost-cutting argument. What's the travelling public gonna feel about having pilots up front who have never flown a real aircraft? I can only imagine. What do all we who have to fly with these people think? If CASA and the operators won't listen, let the public know!