Originally Posted by
P-3Bubba
Thats a good question about going over 16 hours. I've heard guys being told that this is ok. Once they get called out they're subject to a 2 hour extension according to FAR 117. I've told multiple FO's that this is NOT the case. The most time you're available for duty from the start of your RAP to the end of whatever assignment you've been give is 16 hours. The 16 hour thing is usually the most controlling time once you've been called off RSV for a pairing assignment. The flight hours doesnt usually play or FDP based on Table B isn't usually a player either. I've heard CS will tell the pilot "Oh Table B applies so you're good for an extension past 16 hours". Nope. Another good one is, "Well you can waive your 10 hour rest." Once again, Nope. It's usually the less than 1 year FO that doesnt have 121 experience that's getting talked into this.
-Bubs
It may be legal to take a 2hr extension to go to 18hr, but it's not required. It takes very little backbone to turn it down, go to a hotel, and go home the next day. I did it twice last month, and if I'm asked to go beyond 16hr again this month I'd imagine I will not feel it's safe to be on duty that long in August as well. Every CA I've flown with when I've been scheduled to come close to 16hr has voiced no objections when I've said that I'm not good to go beyond that point.