N5139

Isn't that what we're doing now in a sense? I still find it rewarding. The regulatory environment we operate in will only get more complex as airspace gets more congested and fuel saving programs become more and more serious within our respective SOPs. Pilots also have the ability to "keep the operation moving" and make discretionary calls that no computer can.

I have no doubt that we have the technology NOW to make unmanned platforms. However, there is still some grace to flying and I believe there will continue to be. Although there's a lot less stick-and-rudder these days, there is satisfaction to be gained from thoroughly knowing a complex avionics suite (and all its idiosyncrasies) and being free from the "clerical" aspects of flight. Give me all the automation I can have so I can focus on decision-making.

From the guys I know flying the UAS platforms, it seems like a fairly interesting job as well, and one that requires aviators no less. If one entering the field keeps an open mind, there are many opportunities in aviation for years to come.

Heck, the DOD just requested RFPS for a next-generation MANNED bomber platform.

Also, no civil jury will accept "we did everything we could" after an unmanned airliner crashes for any reason.

Just adding my commentary - I appreciate your thoughts as well!

Pilotpip

Advice for him? Depending on if he's old enough, tell him to get a job!

Seriously, I had no family in the industry and didn't know much about it until I started flying. Getting a job at an FBO was the best thing I did. I spent hours yacking with mechanics and looking around open engine cowls, talking to pilots about how they got where they are, getting advice for how to fly. Lots of experience and mistakes to avoid, and a ton of business cards on my desk with the promise of "give me a call when you get xxxx hours". Worst case, you get to know some people who own planes and go for a ride once in a while.

328dude

Tim,or whatever your name is:

Are you worried about the industry as a whole and finding work as a pilot, or following in your footsteps and following you at Southwest as many legacy's have done here.

Maybe post this on the SWAPA site. Might get additional info, but your real identity will be displayed if your trying to protect that which I don't blame you.

RobLAX

[quote=Pilotpip;243295]
Didn't know accident rates showed experience and flight times! Lol. Can we say oooops!!! So unless you have done a study, I will take personal experience over what you think and say YES to your original question.

Additionally, you seem to forget planes today are much more reliable compared to the 60's and 70's. You put a current low time guy in the planes flown in the 60's (oh and include the pilot training back then) and your rates would go off the chart!!!

HercDriver130

FWIW....i wouldnt exactly consider pilots flying 50-80,000 pound jets ...commuter pilots....

Pilotpip

[QUOTE=RobLAX;243334]You're right, they don't take experience into consideration. Regardless, the airlines are far safer today than they were 30 years ago. At that time, United and others were hiring people with zero experience and throwing them in the right seat as soon as they got a commercial. Last time I checked, regionals aren't falling out of the sky.

What about companies still flying 727s and 135 operators using old Lears, Convairs and other aircraft from that generation? Their accident rates are lower today despite using this "less reliable" technology too.

RobLAX

Never said they were. Read what I wrote. If you think a guy moving into a CA jet position after 9 months if safe, your crazy. Odds my son, odds.

RobLAX

Weight does not give you experience my friend. Sorry to burst your bubble.

RobLAX

[quote=Pilotpip;243340]Is pilot training the same as it was in the 60's? Don't think so. You are reaching bubba but your arms are not long enough.

Pilotpip

It's very different, and there's a reason for that. Safety. Low timers weren't the ones causing accidents back in the day anyway. CRM was non-existient. F/Os were largely told not to touch anything unless told to do so. God forbid you question what was going on.

Please tell me long-armed one, where all these aircraft piloted by nine month captains are and where they're falling out of the sky.