Originally Posted by
HeliComparator
P&A on the first bit, as I keep saying the pilot skill set needs to match the role. If you can afford the luxury of expending training time on skills sets not appropriate to the role then that is fine provided it doesn't reduce the training and competence in the skill set that is appropriate. The trouble is that both human psyche and training budgets are limited, and so to fill them will irelevant though no doubt "worthy" stuff would be a mistake.
Agreed, I was just countering what I interpreted as a more blanket statement. Training budgets are limited.
It's interesting that you point out that certain skills should be maintained just in case the pilot has to go back onto a lower-tech type, whilst you don't suggest that a pilot on a lower tech type should maintain the skills of operating an aircraft with advanced automation just in case they have to go back to the advanced type. Hmmm, what is at the root of that is the thought process (am I allowed to say paradigm?) that use of automation is cheating and not "proper flying". A bolt on extra which is not important and can be dispensed with.
There is the root of the problem of oldies being in charge of modern fleets.
Actually, I try to do the same for myself if the machine is equipped. Generally, it is easier to go back than forward. In a straight VFR 212 I can't couple much but I can look at a map in a 92. Sometimes it is just a matter of staying in the books when I don't have to.
But yes, I will try to exercise my button pushing as often as my stick wiggling when workload permits. I do find that some SOP's make it a challenge these days to practice much outside the sim or the normal ops.
It's more work to do it this way, but it is how I prefer to keep myself sharp.