CAA pilots flying with airlines to keep currency?
 

Hi,

Looking for information on CAA personnel (pilots) flying the line to keep currency. Any precedents?
Information/links/directions appreciated

thanks

When I worked for a UK operator the CAA Flight Operations Inspector, assigned to the airline, was rated on the type we flew and would, on occasion, fly a revenue trip from the RHS.

very common
 

and in my opinion, a very good practical idea.

The Ops Insp, keeps current, on type, but also sees the sharp end of the operation.

The last trip I did ex UK CAA, AOC several years ago, the inspectors report was that he was impressed with the crews understanding of the practical problems associated with the type of operation, and felt he should congratulate the operating crew highly.

When asked off the record, just what he was saying: he admitted: there is no way he would work for the company full time, as they treat you like dogs, but keep just legal.

I did a similar exercise with a GCAA Ops Insp recently. He was shocked at the blatant mis use of the FLT, but the company, but was powerless to place a report on file that criticized the operation. (american spell chequer.!!!!)

Off to India for a session of training next week, and based on my previous experiences there, should be fun.....

Happens all the world over. It keeps them current on the aircraft type. Would be a bit nonsensical for them to hand out TRE/TRI ratings etc when they didn't hold them themselves. The airline TRE is afterall only acting as an agent of the issuing authority.

Did one with them last week. The FOI and I worked together some years ago, it was a pleasure to fly with him again and to see that all the knowledge he has absorbed hasn't blunted his skills.

It's an excellent scheme that keeps them aware of what's really happening in the world. :ok: