Is it me or is this company procedure . . . . odd?

[EGPFlyer]

On the A320, the call buzzer is inhibited from T/O power up to 1500ft (you will get a flashing light on the ATT push button on the ACP) so even if they do call you, you probably won't know about it until after you're airborne. It's the same on landing which can catch you out if your airline requires a cabin secure call and they try to call you below 800ft as your only indication that they are calling is the flashing light.

[oicur12.again]

Thanks all for the info, interesting to get other perspectives.

Another question arose today, its a small item but I am interested to see how others approach this.

The new carrier I just joined leaves the SEL light on the entire time so that the FO tunes only VHF 1 through RMP 2.

Every previous carrier I have worked for selects the SEL button to change frequencys then selects SEL off again until the next frequency change.

Supp Proc states "If the SEL lights come on, when tuning the radio, the pilot should turn them off by selecting the appropriate radio system dedicated to his RMP."

Does anybody know the reason that Airbus prefer the SEL light off?

[FlightDetent]

The general operational rule is: light out = system set and fit to fly

"Lights Our or Dark Cockpit Concept" from Airbus Cockpit Philosophy, Airbus Industrie, May 2001

[oicur12.again]

Certainly the SEL light is contrary to the dark cockpit philosophy.

But is there a more technical reason not to leave it on?

[FlightDetent]

None that I know of. Once you fly like that the light is greatly annoying, for about three days and then you get used to it.

Hope I am not mistaken, but I believe that DLH flies the way you describe too.

regards, FD.

[Denti]

Many of my colleagues fly that way. However official SOP is that it should be off. To be honest, during night flights the light simply annoys me as it is way too bright, so i do the switching. But the switching in itself can lead to frequency switching issues which might not be a good idea in certain airspaces.

[oicur12.again]

Thanks again for the info.

I noticed today in the Airbus FCTM that leaving the SEL light on is considered an "identified risk" so I guess that provides a little insight too.

Another question I have by way of a survey I guess, do most carriers require the pilot to wear the oxy mask when the other pilot leaves the cockpit?

My old (bankrupt)carrier long ago did but then dropped this procedure when AI provided feedback that it was not required with quick donning masks.

[BARKINGMAD]

Try reading the crew comms aspects of the BMI Kegworth accident (Registration G-OBME) and decide wot's the safest in retrospect?