I’m usually a smart A$$ on here but this may be my first worthwhile post on APC.
Before I returned from my 6 month Covid COLA and did the “dust of the rust “ sims, I went on 2 short roundtrip flights to observe and see what’s new with operation and just to refresh. It was very helpful. Just putting on the uniform and the airport routine was helpful. I’m a brain dump person so if I don’t do something for a long time I forget.
My suggestion to a new hire waiting IOE for 2 MONTHS - go observe once every 2 weeks, ask the captain if you can load the box , go over every line on a release, wear your uniform and shadow the FO on pre flights. Have your iPad out and follow the checklists and Navigation. Meet the FAs and ask about the safety equipment. Like someone mentioned you are getting full pay and benefits. Put a little effort in so you look sharp when you show up for IOE . Then update apps and drink beer on the rest of your time.
Carryon !