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02-12-2011 | 04:37 AM

dave2118

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Question to Commercial Pilots

I hope this isn't weird or out of the norm:

I'm a middle aged guy with an interest in flight and no intention of making this a career. I've taken a few flight lessons, blah blah, but I always wanted to take a look inside a 737.

Is it normal for people to ask to take a look inside the cockpit after a flight? Typically pilots greet passengers on their way out and I always thought about asking if I could look inside the cockpit. Maybe after 9/11 this isn't allowed.

I typically fly SWA, maybe I should write them to ask?

Thanks

Nerd in Indiana

02-12-2011 | 05:26 AM

ce650

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From: EVIL PRIVATE JET

I go up and say hi all the time,,just in case I may know one of the crew.

02-12-2011 | 06:02 AM

Comet

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I've asked like 8 times
and the stewardess is always like "oh, they are really busy right now"
and I'm like "busy looking at auto pilot?"

02-12-2011 | 06:58 AM

rickair7777

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From: Engines Turn or People Swim

Quote:

Originally Posted by Comet

I've asked like 8 times
and the stewardess is always like "oh, they are really busy right now"
and I'm like "busy looking at auto pilot?"

Obviously they can't let you up during flight.

But there really is a lot of work that has to be done prior to departure, the autopilot doesn't know where to go unless you program it with a flight plan! SWA does 20 minute turns compared to most airlines doing 45-60 minute turns, so they are the worst guys to ask.

Best time might be if you are holding at the gate for a delay.

02-12-2011 | 08:08 AM

abelenky

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From: C-172 PPL

Check this out...

You might want to check out this company:

Airline Captain for a Day

You can fly a full 737 Sim there for 30 minutes or an hour.
That might answer any questions you have.

02-13-2011 | 02:53 PM

blastoff

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From: A320 CA

Quote:

Originally Posted by Comet

I've asked like 8 times
and the stewardess is always like "oh, they are really busy right now"
and I'm like "busy looking at auto pilot?"

And I'm like "Ever heard of 9/11?"

02-13-2011 | 05:28 PM

Assassin

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You don't lose anything by asking, but I agree that it might be a bit trickier on SWA since they are all about the quick turn around and LUV efficiency. Just be polite and eventually somebody will say yes.

02-13-2011 | 07:01 PM

Ottopilot

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From: 737 CA

I've never said no to anyone who asks. I'll put people in the seat and take a photo with thier camera too. Your welcome on CAL/UAL anytime.

You must do it before or after the flight.