LPC/OPC and Circling Approaches
I am a 737 trainer, and before that, a trainer on 3 other types. I have spent a lot of my life in the back of simulators and have a good feel for what is well simulated and what is not.
I have become uncomfortable with the JAR-format proficiency check requiring pilots to demonstrate a circling approach - ie it is now a 'test' requirement, not a 'refresher' element. In most simulators, the visual system has a 120 or 150 degree visual segment, so it is impossible to look over your shoulder and keep the runway in view. In order to legally continue with a circling approach, the threshold must be in sight, obstacle clearance must be assured and the aircraft must be in a position to carry out a safe landing.
In a simulator, once you have passed abeam the threshold, none of these criteria can be fulfilled - and if you were in the actual aircraft you should go-around. I am not happy about testing a pilot on a procedure which is, in effect, illegal. Additionally I find that many pilots, me included, not surprisingly make a cock of it - including people who could fly the pants off me. I would prefer circling to be a refresher requirement - not a legislative one.
Has anyone else found difficulties with this, or am I just becoming an old woman?!