Originally Posted by
BMEP100
Sometimes there is a work around, if you are so inclined to try something outside the box.
Twice in IAH in the last 5 years I've had a jet with inop APU that would not cool down on the gate in the summer time.
Hot sunny day, VFR all the way to destination (domestic).
Ordered extra 1000 lbs gas.
Told gate if they want the plane to depart, to,collect all carry-on that might be gate checked and send them down prior to boarding.
Once the bellies were loaded and closed up, we would start right engine at gate, cool down jet, board, push, crossbleed, depart.
Gate and ramp agreed. Added about 20 minutes to departure dance at gate.
Everybody happy,... including flight attendants who didn't have sweat stained necks during boarding.
Unfortunately, Boeing did not design the 57 to be cooled with ground air on a sunny day when it's above 85 and humid.
Job well done, that’s what we get paid the big bucks for, to make decisions like this, manage situations, and get the job done. I have had days like this and called the FODM, talked it over with them, they are extremely helpful and can coordinate directly with ATC, ramp supervisors etc, and act as a great cover your a$$ if something happens. The FODM are a phenomenal resource. We had an apu air inop on a snow day in ORD, the FODM coordinated everything we needed with ramp tower and ground people device etc, and we pulled it off without a hiccup, arrived 10 early, SAFELY, and with a lot of happy people. You want big $$ and big profit sharing checks, try doing your job....