Here you go EX

 

More important, What does the OP think about UA's new TA?

 

The neophyte is not aware that many airlines conduct training for Pilot Incapacitation.

 

This is the article that I read:

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/artic...uverify%20wall

 

I reached out to American Airlines to confirm that 2 pilots are required, and they would not answer with an affirmative. This was the response. Names have been removed:


September 28, 2023


Hello Mr. xxx:


Thank you for contacting Customer Relations. We understand your concern for our pilots and appreciate you taking the time to inquire about the number of pilots on duty in our aircraft. While I can understand your desire for specific feedback regarding our pilots, for privacy, we simply cannot share internal information.

Our rules regarding the length of time a pilot is on duty and the number of pilots on our aircraft is in strict compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards and, in many cases, are even more conservative. American Airlines has led the industry in crew fatigue countermeasure programs, and we continue to focus on ways to ensure that our crews are well-rested while on duty. This includes, but is not limited to having pilots on standby to facilitate.

Under current regulations, pilots are aware of their responsibility to ensure they are rested and capable to fly. We believe we employ some of the best pilots in the industry and we would never do anything to jeopardize their safety or the safety of anyone onboard an American Airlines' flight. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to elaborate on such an important issue.

On behalf of everyone at American Airlines, Mr. xxxx, please know that we appreciate you very much and it would be our pleasure to welcome you on board again in the future.

Sincerely,
xxx

Customer Relations
American Airlines

 

Yes, I am admittedly a neophyte. That is why I am asking.

But, even as a neophyte, I understand that pilot incapacitation training does not help, if there's only 1 pilot. Am I wrong?

 

FO Feckless

 

That response email is a canned response, either from a chatbot or an intern who knows nothing about aviation.

Bottom line, there is absolutely NO regulatory allowance for single pilot airline ops in the US (except for possibly very, very small propeller planes).

Some foriegn airlines are trying to get approval to eliminate a third relief pilot from long-haul crews who need to rotate for rest. The idea there is one pilot can rest in the back during cruise flight, while a single pilot minds the ship during the low-workload cruise phase. In the event of a problem, the other pilot would return to the cockpit. None of us like that idea, but there would be another pilot on board at least.

No US airline is authorized to do that either.

 

That's very strange. I've been at AA for many years and can't recall ever flying solo. Must be a new change. I'll look for the memo.

 

They did answer your question.

“Our rules regarding the length of time a pilot is on duty and the number of pilots on our aircraft is in strict compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards and, in many cases, are even more conservative.”

Case closed.