Originally Posted by
GoHomeLeg
No forgiveness needed. I believe (and am probably wrong) that type ratings now are being issued to first officers as a product of everyone being required to posses an ATP regardless of seat occupied. This means that individuals coming in without an ATP already in hand are required to some sort of "ride" in order to get it.
As for "upgrade" I think you are spot on about how training should go. It's crazy times my friend.
Thank you very much for the kind words, I do believe many things are harder, or, more difficult now. I got my ATP in 1986 as a "courtesy", easy to do thing, when I went for a Be-99, Instructor, Check Airman ride with the local FSDO. He said: Ohh, you've taken the written, would you like me to sign of on your ATP?" This guy was pure gold and I simply said: yes please". Now, the kids have to take extra courses I understand, instead of just proving the 1500 hours and taking the ride ... Why ???
It was hard back in the day as well, but different, you could still show up, make your way around the patch a few times and get hired to fly a Beech 18 ... best times I ever had, but they appear to have dried up. So I guess Different times, different challenges...