Originally Posted by
SMACFUM
What's the deal with this? One would assume that if they can pass an ATP-PIC Type ride they would be able to fly the airplane, right? I mean is there something particularly difficult about line flying that isn't seen in simulator training? (genuine question from a soon to be FNG)
I don't know your background but here's a take.
Realistically they are two separate worlds from sim to when you get online. You're dealing with a lot of operational difficulties as well as ground issues.
When you're in the air you get everything thrown at you where it's not just preprogrammed emergencies and checklists (SIM) it's line oriented flight stuff.
However now you're dealing with different attitudes and different styles. Now you're staying ahead of the plane, dealing with controllers,different,airports,different weather, paperwork, walkarounds,fuel issues, ground programs,frequencies,landings"for real," planning descents where you're already to high...etc.
#1FYI - Being cleared for a visual seems to be the hardest for some guys in a jet...