Originally Posted by Doc on board
737er: Agree, we are a long, long way from fully automated. But, wouldn't that only support more eyes? Also, you really think it's impossible to correct massive input for CFIT from cruise? If it's at least possible, isn't it worth it?
I hope the datalink to control the planes full of paying passengers are more reliable than the comms that go silent in certain parts of the country even when someone is not downstairs hacking at the cables.
I liked flying with three in the crew. It made things easier during emergencies and non-normals. Someone to fly, someone to read the procedure and someone to perform the procedure. Even in a two pilot aircraft using an augmented crew with an IRO in the seat during critical phases of flight. Still the sensible division of duties. We are concerned with safety, right?
That attempted hijacking that was thwarted by a three man crew had a better outcome than the four successful attempts that followed.