Originally Posted by
Frank Rizzo
Yeah, I'll elaborate.
Stating to ATC that "we got ETOPs" while enroute to anywhere in the Caribbean (Central or S. America for that matter) from the east coast makes the crew look like they don't know what they're doing...therefore scary.
ETOPs certification is largely a maintenance inspection procedure and less so a assurance of any required equipment to operate in a non-radar environment. To state to a controller that "we got ETOPs" shows the crews lack of understanding. I can't think of a single instance when a crew would voluntarily need to tell a controller that.
Poor choice of wording on their part? Sure.
Lack of understanding about ETOPS? Doubtful.
Yes, we're all aware that true ETOPS certification is largely a mx function.
Try this on for elaboration (assuming what was reported they said is even accurate - given the SWA haters here, dubious at best);
"We've got ETOPS (equipment and therefore can enter WATRS)".
Currently only Check Airman are doing the WATRS flights. While they're far from perfect, I suspect the extra training and attention they received prior to starting the service has them with an adequate understanding of what they're doing.
All of this over what someone
says they heard.
And hardly "scary".