Student Operating Procedures..

Only two days into the new term; we have fallen straight back into the very familiar routine which we had briefly left only two weeks ago, long days and evening reading with not much else.

However, the course now has taken a more 'what you need to do and know in the real world' perspective; which is a welcome change.

It really does feel as though we are learning the ways to behave and what to do when we will be flying. Phrases such as "When you are in command of..." and "As captain you..." have reminded me of what I am working towards.

Today we had quite a lesson with The Weatherman; since having finished with his 'teaching' in Meteorology, he has reprised his role as an instructor teaching us Operating Procedures. This is a subject he regards as

- "Shit I know about"

He has got quite a wealth of experience for a few airlines from around the world, making him full of stories and anecdotes to aid the teaching. We're not the only class he has for this subject; last thing of the day he came bursting in saying

- "I've just had the **** Air class; some of that bunch haven't got a clue. I was explaining to them about alternate landings and one of them asks

- 'Can you land on sand?'

- I suppose you could, if you wanted to. Then one of them asks

- 'Can you land on the side of a mountain?' "

He gave a concerned look.

If those are going to be the pilots of tomorrow, I would recommend not flying with **** Air.