This topic also posted on other forums...
Have problem, seek input.
Current job entails spray application, fixed and rotary wing ; during 'season' there is a decent amount of flying, but out of season, which can be 4 to 5 months, there is a trend to reduce 'training' and maintenance flying. Rotary platform are Hughes 500Ds (369Ds) in which all flying is done treetop to 200'agl.
We adhere to federally mandated currency requirements, however policy from admin/beancounter types is reducing already minimal hours out of season to ridiculous levels, and we are not squeezed budgetarily.
Problem is two-fold:
1)In an effort to constantly reduce costs, training flying has been and continues to be reduced (not so with admin related stuff, indeed usual 'empire-building' going on).
2)Whilst we have very competent maintenance folks, attitude of 'if they fly them they'll only break them' prevails.
'Flight Safety' can be invoked, but it would be nice to have some data to table-thump with ; as such, any and all input- anecdotal or better yet academic- will be most gratefully received.
Have done extensive internet search on this subject, including contacting various agencies involved in Human Factors work (industry sponsored studies and whatnot), and come up dry. Of course, the problem here is that in commercial aviation it's usually the case that aircrews are over-tasked as opposed to under.
Again, any input welcomed.
F.I.D.O.