Hi all-
I have been having fierce heartburn for the past 18 months or so that
I've been instructing on the MD-11 at DL; I wrote numerous times to the
forum; seems not too many were interested.
I have at times had better luck with a pilot off the steam gauges (727)
transitioning to the MD-11 than one off the 767. Some pilots refuse to
let go, example - some former 767 drivers expect to see a green arc on
the ND and we just don't have one on the MD-11. Can't extend the
centerline on our airplane like one can do on the 767. I would think a
25+ year professional pilot with experience on all types would realize
he/she bid the MD-11 by choice and if they are receptive, I will teach
them the safest way to utilize the automation and fly the MD-11. My best
advice to pilots off another "glass" aircraft with FMS experience is to
let me teach them the FMS and related automation on the MD-11, CONSISTENT
WITH COMPANY POLICY, and, for their sake, DO NOT, REPEAT, DO NOT COMPARE
IT TO PREVIOUS EQUIPMENT AND ALWAYS EXAMINE THE WAY IT WAS DONE ON A
PREVIOUS AIRCRAFT! Many usually waste considerable time comparing the two
(or three) aircraft, then waste additional time trying to figure out why
the MD-11 FMS is not like say the 767.
Some try to overhaul and rebuild the automation, again comparing it to a
previous aircraft. They wonder why they are now behind, badly, and
usually wind up blaming the MD-11 FMS or whatever.
Personally, this is I believe my fifth airplane with FMS, and yes, at
first it was different. I worked hard, maintained an open mind, was
concerned about doing the best job on my new airplane (that I bid) and
did not compare or try to justify the way it is now. I feel comfortable
on the MD-11, love the airplane and can honestly say it is not difficult
staying ahead of the airplane at all times. SA is good, very good!
There are indeed pilots off the 767 or MD-88 that apply useful experience
from previous equipment, learn the way our airplane must be flown and, SA
is very good!
In the case however of the pilot refusing to "dump" previous procedures
and always challange and whine about the MD-11, my personal observation
is that they are usually lost, both SA & PA! In cases like that, I will
train from scratch a pilot right off the steam gauges; it is usually fun
for both of us!!
Regards-
Lonny