Takes us back to a discussion about Mode White, Green, Yellow, and Red Modes of Piloting!
The transition from each is pretty quick....but to jump a Mode does not go quickly or well and to jump two Modes scares the Bejeesus out you.
Pilots should stay in the Green Mode....and never the White! Occasional visits to the Yellow Mode are normal, expected, and consistent with good Piloting.
Forays into the Red Mode suggest unexpected mechanical problems with the aircraft or sudden abnormal events occurring from outside sources not under the Pilot's control or having been caught smack dab in the middle of a White Mode Experience.
The White Mode is that warm, fuzzy, feel good, thinking about Dinner, cuddling with your Girl Friend before going home for Dinner with the Wife sort of mental state....where you are miles away from where you are sitting.
The Green Mode is you are paying attention to what is going on....are attuned to the situation so you are anticipating any actions you might have to take, still relaxed and comfortable.
The Yellow Mode is when you tweak to the need to pay attention to a specific issue that may require distinct action in either maneuvering the aircraft or taking some unique action to correct a problem or situation.
The Red Mode is triggered by something that grabs our attention which unattended to will result in much worse things happening. That is when the Adrenalin flows...the Heart Beat turns into a Snare Drum Tattoo....and your focus turns to exactly what is the threat.
Last edited by SASless; 14th Dec 2013 at 13:57.