Originally Posted by Jetjok

Sounds like the combination of the MD-11's inability to handle very much side load on landing, coupled with new guys in the right seat, coupled with some older (more senior) guys bidding RFO to work on their frequent flier miles may be a slight problem.

Why not create a "cruise pilot" position. These guys would only occupy the seat during the cruise portion of the flight, and never for takeoffs or landings. That would allow them to concentrate on button pushing, while the "real" pilots would operate the controls for the more critical phases of flight. That would, IMHO, satisfy some of Jack's concerns, and at the same time, allow for a more rested flight crew on long or multi-leg night time trips. It could provide for a whole new pay scale, and with so many of us retiring in the next few years, would allow the company access to a group of pilots, with lots of experience, at a minimal cost. Then our first officers could hone their flying skills, not their "sitting in first class" skills.

Anyway, just a thought.