In 1946, James Barnes wrote ‘Does history repeat itself, the first time as tragedy, the second time as farce? No, that is too grand, too considered a process. History just burps, and we taste again that raw-onion sandwich it swallowed centuries ago.” (A History of the World in 10˝ Chapters),
We don’t have to go back centuries to review a tragedy in which management demonstrated absolutely no understanding of our profession. Each work day management presents a multi-million asset to the Pilot in Command to manage. How the PIC manages that asset has a direct impact on the airline’s P&L and as such the airline’s commercial viability.
The post by Captain Sherm (140) contains a very important message, not only for each of us, but particularly for the Flight Operations management team at JQ.
Goodness knows what is motivating them at this time. They will probably not heed any advice, least of all mine, but for what it is worth. Gents –
· Behave in a professional manner.
· Start listening to your pilots.
· Deliver the truth to your management.
· Don’t allow yourselves to be used and as such be responsible for another attack on the Profession of Air Pilot.
· Do not be responsible for creating an environment that results in a degradation of safety standards. Poor morale, anger and distraction are safety issues.
· Remember the ATSB will investigate management’s role in any accident / incident.
People may treat the Senate with contempt, but such behaviour will not be tolerated at a Royal Commission!