Aviation Memes
 

We don't have people thinking the problem through these days; we have memes. Much is driven by the airlines' fear of the legal system which would devastate the company if a similar problem occurred and they had "DONE NOTHING". The new two crew procedures are spreading and are being put in place with little regard to consequences. MEMES at their most dangerous.

As many members have pointed out the reactionary "solution" is only partially effective and presents possibly more exposure than the problem it is supposed to address. The problem in this case is not procedure, it is people. PILOTs are people (though there are many who may dispute this statement).

Mental health (and mental illness) have only been recently recognised as valid entities in our culture. Psychiatry has evolved to a professional that might be effective in pilot assessment. The doctor would likely have to extend their education to include aviation related issues. Initial screening would be mandatory along with annual "updates".

Another difficult step would be enforcing doctors to refer pilots with possible mental issues to licensed aviation professionals. This would have the effect of discouraging a pilot from seeking any help at all as few are willing to place their personal careers in jeopardy. Possibly companies could develop a "no penalty" benefit for those who sought help.

Companies would have to play closer attention to their aviators personal affairs such as finance, drinking, lifestyle choices and personal lives as these all impact on mental well being. Bank accounts could be monitored along with your internet and cellular activities. Personal lives would be placed under a continuous microscope with the objective of supplying pilots with "healthy" mental attitudes. Your career choice would immediately be questioned as what sane person would want such a job?

Which leaves us with the alternative.

No pilots at all. The completely electronic flight deck. HAL. An airline accountant's electric dream. If the customers can be convinced that pilots are dangerous and should not be on the flight deck then this is the next logical step. Keep the pilots together in a remote location where they can be employed only when needed and under constant evaluation. The new, improved aviator :rolleyes:. http://www.thedailybeast.com/article...ot-pilots.html

One more article: http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/07/sc...lots.html?_r=1

Another meme is about to spawn.