Originally Posted by
PhoenixFlood
UPDATE!!!
This is now a non-issue. Just sat down in a Challenger 601 and all I need to do is bring my right hand underneath the TR levers from the right side and simply lift up. Once the triggers have been pressed in and the TR's lifted up, I bring my right hand back on top and pull them back with ease.
Like I said, I was worried about nothing.
Thanks for the tips everyone.
Phoenix,
The CRJ (all models) certainly does have a TR release catch. There are also a few other control manipulations which you might need to get creative with also, but I suspect you could figure it all out.
Also the yoke is fat, and requires a LOT of gripping force during a X-Wind landing to hold the required correction...especially since your hands are often sweaty. Many folks need to use both hands...they deploy the TRs, then put their throttle hand back on the yoke. I do it one handed cuz I like quick access the TR's on icy runways, but it still takes me a lot of effort one-handed...and I'm not a small person.
I assume you hold an unrestricted 1st. Class medical? Even so it's possible that you could encounter some resistance at an interview strictly due to safety concerns. A couple of thoughts...
1) The ADA almost never applies to airline pilots (the legacy carriers spent a lot of cash in the 1990's to ensure this legal precedent). In this case I suspect that you would be an exception. The downside to the ADA is that you now have a public record of suing airline employers...may not be a good credential to have in this industry. I'm not sure if a prospective employer can legally hold that against you, but like I said, lawsuits are PUBLIC records.
2) You might be the only person I've talked to who I feel might actually benefit from spending the money to earn a CRJ type rating...this would allow you to figure out whatever tricks you need in advance, and would obviosly re-assure an interviewer who is concerned with your ability to complete training.
However...if an employer has legit concerns that your physical condition presents a safety problem you might not be able to work around that.
Also be aware that public perception is somewhat important in the airline business. Passengers are inherently stupid, bizarre, and unpredictable...pax who see a pilot who appears to be physically impaired may deplane the aircraft, complain to the company, call the FAA, etc. You may want to think in advance how you could avoid such situations, and be prepared to discuss this with an employer.
Good Luck!