Originally Posted by
rickair7777
The 727 had a thing called a "Panel". The Panel had a guy sitting in front it (sideways) called the "Flight Engineer". FE's did not actually fly the airplane. Your friend probably spent some time sitting at the panel.
Also, airline safety statistics in the late 60's were quite poor compared to today...do some quick research, there are lot fewer airliners and a lot more accidents. You probably don't remember those little kiosks that sat in every airport...and sold per-trip life insurance
Ok if he did fly the "Panel" and didn't actually fly the airplane, have you ever thought one day he moved from the "Panel" to the FO seat with STILL having 200hrs and 10multi
. See my point is there's no Replacement for experience except experience. I've yet to understand how Instructing in Clear and a million prepares someone for the types of flying encountered in airline flying. I mean many flight schools won't even let their planes fly when forecast is showing bad weather on the way..... As for your on-site life insurance it was a way to make quick money using people's Fear. Fear is a powerful weapon! I wonder how many really had to Use that Insurance?