Originally Posted by rickair7777
It seems to be always prop captains going to jet CA or FO, probably because it's hard to stay in turboprops for long without upgrading. I don't think it could be a pilot quality thing, initial aircaft assignments are random.
Are you referring to internal company upgrades and transistions, or to outside new hires?
Do you think it's related to the automation (FMS, glass, etc) or ?? I spend my days slash alpha. The SAAB has a great autopilot and good EADI and EFIS, but otherwise it's dual nav/coms, DME's, and an ADF. I'm curious if you (or anyone else) thinks the lack of FMS style PIC time is of any real concern or, if one is competent generally, those skills can be readily picked up in training.
We have had a few of captain upgrades fail recently for "soft skills" - lack of command authority. Call it seasoning or whatever, but guys aren't ready when the call comes. Our FAA ACPM has indicated this is a problem the FAA is concerned about at a number of regional airlines. Are you guys seeing any of this too? I'm inclined to chalk it up to the quick upgrade...