One Ship.Two Crews.The Weakest Link
Pilot flight duty limitations are covered by legislation.As it should be.Being a pilot is a profession and involves enormous responsibilty.
Cabin Crew are generally not viewed as being in a profession.In fact most airlines view flight attendants as a being a necessary evil.
They generally get pushed around or threatened like small children.
In delays or diversions when duty hour limits are reached pilots get off,are replaced or accommodated.
There is however the question of who looks after the self loading freight.Cabin crew can be threatened or intimidated to extend hours in the hope that the weather or whatever caused the delay or diversion will resolve itself.
Fatigue protocols mandated by Qantas for example require self monitoring.If you believe you are fatigued dont operate.Ops and CC managemnt dont see it that way.You are simply being difficult or obstructive.You will be coerced and made to feel guilty about causing enormous inconvenience to passengers and ground staff.
The biggest threat is being disrupted or turned around.Too bad if it disrupts family arrangements or that appointment with the specialist.
Be aware of your EBA and fatigue protocols and stand your ground.
You will get no thanks from your employer.
An alleged incidence of coercion and intimidation of a CSM is currently under investigation.The outcome must surely stop the long standing practise of CC being cajoled by Ops in situations of delay,diversions and disruptions