But that is exactly what does my head in. How can an FO train another FO to become a captain? How can you mentor him? Based on what knowledge? Who taught you to become a trainer, a fellow FO?
Maybe my view of training is too romantic. I too would like to train others, pass on my experience and such. But even now as an experienced captain I ask myself if I am ripe and wise enough to take on that role. I don't just want to be a teacher, want to be a good and consistent mentor.
I have no problem whatsoever with FO's teaching typerating courses and such. Anyone with the right skills, patience and attitude can do that. You don't even have to be a pilot! But when it comes down to developing your fellow pilots, you need people with the right real world experience. In both seats. IMHO.
I remember a captain disagreeing with me wholeheartedly that you don't have to fly at V2 during an emergency turn procedure despite it being written in the manual. Now would this captain have just accepted my words if I were a captain?
One thing I learned early on in the left hand seats is that trainers are only human beings and that I can read OMA/B/C just as well as them. I have had to correct a senior trainer in matters of SOP. So don't take it too personally
