That means the FO who was scheduled to fly with the LCA was released with pay. This is how it should be. This new means of conducting probie checks definitely is a status quo change. Another LCA work around.

 

Not how it works in the 717 in NYC. Every time an FO needs a mid-phase check (and there are lots since new hires cycle through), an LCA sits in the JS and gives both guys a check for 2 legs. Sooo...this new policy could actually be an attempt to help out the captains, who are sometimes subjected to multiple LCA checks in a year and NOT a grand conspiracy to screw us. Just sayin'

 

You are being naive. Let's look at the big picture.

It allows an FO (lower pay) to do what a captain (higher pay) used to do. It requires fewer higher-paid jobs. That's a problem.

This change was NOT instituted to "help out the captains." Management is actively conspiring to take every cent and shred of leverage they possibly can. The sooner you understand this, the better.

 

Or...it could be that, like in NY, not enough guys are willing to be LCA and there just aren't enough to accomplish all the checks. Or...it could be a grand conspiracy. All I'm saying is that not every change is 'The Man' trying to keep us down. Let's not spin our wheels on every new shiny thing. Instead, concentrate on 1 or 2 really important things. The Grand Conspiracy may just be to get us chasing so many rabbits, that in the end we just end up tired, confused and right back where we started. Just a thought.

 

We've had AQFOs for what? A decade? More? How is this different?

 

How long have AQFOs been doing these new hire check rides?

 

They used to use Check S.O.s to do the new hire engineer rides. I would think with your screen name you'd have known that : )

 

ALPA let the camel's nose under the tent a long time ago w/the AQFO program, but I do take your meaning vis a vie the escalation. On the other hand, it is a great vehicle for designating talented people for future leadership. Right now FO's who want to something other that line pilot can only go to the training department. AFQO or (whatever the new designator may be) is a great opportunity to get highly qualified individuals to that side of the operation.

I know its not popular talk here, but doing something other than line pilot isn't the same as shagging sheep-most days. A widely profitable corporation needs those guys who, because of there own wants, ambition, drive, etc. want more responsibility. AQFO is a great entry point. The two guys hired my category have insane levels of experience and judgment. They are being tapped because people will be working for them in ten years. With 8000 retiring in 10 years we need to get them, in place. That's a good thing.

I get the argument. Stick it to the man. Or perhaps, just make the company operate to the exact confines of the contract. But ultimately I think that bites us in the butt. I think you save your big ammo for the biggest issues and just ***** about the little stuff. This is a little issue. Voted heck no. Got a little vocal. Tried not to go crazy. But this doesn't seem like a new or big issue.

 

Re: The new box to check to accept a GS while on a rotation. Has that been added to iCrew yet? Can't see it on the template.

Tanks.

 

I agree with all that. I got nothing against AQFOs doing those flights.
I'm just saying the company can't make this change while we are in Section 6 unless we agree to it.

If its not a big issue then management shouldn't mind stopping it.