Originally Posted by
buzzpat
And, flash forward (and I commented about this about a year ago and don't want to have to go back and do that search): Delta, as opposed to the former NWA, has always empowered the FO's. We have also known what the guy in the left seat was going to do: its a team effort. The pilot flying the leg inputs all of the flying stuff into the boxes. The other guy, the PM, would do the walk-around and the preflight. Whoever flies that leg briefs the leg, the departure, the taxi, the threats, etc. Works great, lasts a long time. Delta has always emphasized a healthy CRM cockpit without the caste system that interferes with safe flight. Maybe because we have a lot of guys, like me, with a lot of experience in aviation but a junior seniority number. Its a cultural thing: but I damn sure guarantee you that it does not invite some kid in the right seat watching his CA fly a stupid approach or doing anything that might get the both of them violated. I understand the fNWA approach. As a pilot of 27 years, I kind of like the Delta approach.
Buzz,
I understand your point because Im now in the South system and doing it the South way. I have a broader perspective than you do. Having that perspective allows me to avoid the sweeping generalizations that seem to be creeping into your posts. I don't believe you understand the NW approach since you've never used it. All you have to go on is what others have told you about it. Having used both systems now I can legitimately make the following observations:
-Worldflight produced a better formatted, easier to read dispatch product. I still miss that 2nd release. I can sometimes print my own but it seems to depend on the type of terminal at the gate.
-AWABS is simpler.
-The DAL manuals are an abomination.
-The NW training product was far more consistant. Train the way you will operate on the line. Sim intructors were also LCPs.
-Memory items need to go, and the redbordered checklist needs to return.
-Commuting and J/S policies at DAL are wrongheaded.
-Dal memos are formatted in such a way that they look like there printed off a 1940s teletype machine. PDF anyone?
- What's with the S captains not even wanting to look at the logbooks? Kinda scares me.
-The TP system appears to have been watered down to the point of being pointless.
-Ditto the ACARS system. I do understand that this will be one area that gets some attention.
-The overall DAL world is A LOT more pilot friendly. I love it.
-DAL facilities are WAAAY better. You S guys liking the Bus stop in MSP?
-The guys I've been flying with have been great. They're largely curious about NW. When they ask about something I tell them. Otherwise I don't. Cats and dogs can fly together. (They're the cats)
-The scheduling flexability at DAL is a great thing. No so sure about PBS though.
That's it off the top of my head. When you've used both systems you can compare and contrast and form an opinion about what is or isn't better. Until then you can't.
Gnewt