When the BEA Trident hit another aircraft ( DC-9 ??) over ZAGREB, as was established in the accident investigation, crew members reading newspapers, and not looking out the window, was a probable contributor to the collision.
Even in Australia airspace, there have been a number of near misses that would have been hits, if not for the good lookout of the crew, ( Lufthansa V. Qantas between Alice and Balgo Hill, Continental V. a Gulfstream of the NSW coast are just two that come to mind) and it is hardly a “professional” attitude to bag the idea of a good lookout, that’s what see and avoid is all about, and don’t forget the number of collisions IN controlled airspace in Australia.
I note Keg’s post with some interest, Qantas has survived operating in every airspace environment devised since 1921, and quite successfully, the Captain you mentioned well knew, understood and accepted the need for using every resource available, including a good lookout, to minimize risk, and demanded the same from his crew.
As for your sunspots, Keg, did you get them from the Classic 747 Classic, the 767, or the early 744, that did not have the pull up/down side shades.
I really do suggests, in the interest of the safety of your aircraft and other crew and passengers, that your keep your vision unobstructed, in other word’s arrange your affairs to maximize the safety of your operation, and put your own immediate comfort well down the list of priorities.
And perhaps have a look at the Qantas policy manuals, all of them, there is some good advice there, and it ain't optional for Qantas crews.
Tootle pip!!