This just another opinion, but I believe the following,
The flex/assumed temp on engines does save money, and is a safe operating program. It is not the issue that needs changing.
These airplanes are operating safely around the world every single minute using this function and have been doing so for decades.
This incident seems to be just a very unfortunate and isolated mistake by two very capable crew. The laptop SOP calculation when done correctly should and do trap errors. This is not to say that a revised system is not forthcoming but I find the system and SOP's to be reasonable. The process to input, SOP's and adherence to SOP's is the issue. Distraction and interruption in the flight deck pre departure also needs addressing.
I'm sure every pilot will now pay closer attention to the TO calculation and reduced thrust/flex numbers. This is a positive net result. I wish the crew a better future ahead.
Last edited by Saltaire; 9th Apr 2009 at 09:17.