A Failure of Leadership, Culture and Priorities
I was just casting my eye back over the XV230 report by Charles Haddon-Cave QC.
It is titled 'A failure of Leadership, Culture and Priorities'. It cites 'a series of weaknesses in the area of personnel'. And one of the recommendations says:
'Recommendation 28.7: Officers’ terms on appointment should no longer include ‘change objectives’ but should, in future, include a statement requiring them to consider carefully the impact of any changes or initiatives and whether there might be any indirect or direct implications for Safety or Airworthiness.'
So, why has someone thought it sensible to replace a fleet of fully serviceable Van Gelder winches during the 'pause'. Not only will there be flying skill fade to contend with when gliding resumes there will now also be the challenge of operating a new type of winch, which is bound to bring teething problems - some no doubt airfield specific. A resumption of operations with the old winch followed by the gradual introduction of the new winch once instructors and staff had achieved a sensible level of flying currency would have been far preferable. As it is, another 'moving part' has been changed that did not need to be. The level of risk has been elevated unnecessarily, not to mention for no improvement in output.