Wiggy
No, the 744F identical automatics to pax version. (Didn't fly the -800 version)
At the start of operations the GSS Ops manager ( ex BA Short Haul) wanted the BA split approach SOP but was outvoted by Training and crew opinion.
IMO we therefore had a more relaxed operating environment where manual handling was at the Capt/ crews discretion at all stages of the sector, and gave us much more freedom to hand fly, and maintain our skills on a long haul operation.
Even then the BA SOP was becoming comical in some respects. I remember on a severe CAVOK arr into LHR on a Route Check, I took over the handling from the co-pilot on a split approach, passing approx WOD, <10000ft., no Holding and landing westerly.
On the debrief the RTC criticised me , in that I should not have resumed control until on final, as I did not have the runway continuously in sight, ie when past downwind to base leg. A requirement of the split approach philosophy apparently.
Last edited by cessnapete; 14th Jul 2015 at 15:22.