I have recent experience as a PA on the Dom, flew approx 1200hrs about 800 as PA.
PAs do a course with a QFI, normally 2 PAs at a time taking it in turns to occupy the seat. If I remember rightly they get about 7 dedicated sorties each. Having qualified as 'proficient' they maintain currency by doing an instrument approach and landing with a 'training Captain' (pilots who are former QFIs but not necessarily on the Dom). Every 6mths PAs do a check ride with a Dominie QFI which involves recoveries from unusual attitudes and low level pullups along with approaches various.
PA is always in the seat for take off and landing these days though in the past an Eng stude would occupy for whole sortie and advanced phase studes could remain in the seat for landing. If a stude is to occupy the RHS they do so after the en-route checks normally or when the Capt is happy.
Yes it was good fun and yes I was always hoping the pilot would have a funny turn in a non life/career threatening way!
