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Old 6th Nov 2009, 11:54
  #13 (permalink)  
Dragun
 
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Sydney
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Correct.

Next time you guys taxi past B4, B3 and F you will notice some little flags in pairs. When the SAABs and DHC-8's pull up to the holding point, the wing tips rest directly over these flags. The flags mark a fuel line that runs underneath the ground at those points that is electrically charged to prevent corrosion (so we're told). This screws with the flux valves in the wingtips that are resting right over them causing a 'HSI HDG MISMATCH' error message in the attitude and heading reference system that prevents us from taking off. Seeing as it can take a few minutes to clear, the company has directed us to stop with the wing tips remaining clear of the flags which is the easiest prevention method. This leaves the back of the aircraft hanging out and some obvious annoyance for those taxiing behind. ATC are aware of this which is why we are often sent to B1 and B2 when space allows.

If you guys have a problem with it, take it up with SACL and get them to fix the problem, or take it up with flight ops as has been suggested. To suggest that crews haven't noticed that they're sitting 10 metres from the holding point, or are doing it deliberately, is just demeaning.
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