A Hummer and Zurich

Les Abend

Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

A check airman guides Larry, a pilot transitioning to the 767-300, through his international operating experience, emphasizing hands-on familiarization with the new aircraft and procedures on a flight to Zurich.
Larry navigates various challenges during the flight, including an initial SELCAL malfunction, an unfamiliar airport environment, and successfully executing a demanding CAT III approach in low visibility.
The methodical training, combined with the check airman's supportive coaching, ensures Larry's successful progress towards becoming an international widebody captain, with even minor passenger issues contributing to the sense of mission accomplishment.

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Larry had a relaxed demeanor when he introduced himself in JFK Operations. He had been a Super 80 captain based in Boston for quite some time. Now he was transitioning to the 767/757. I was his check airman for the international qualification portion of his Operating Experience (OE). He had already completed the domestic portion of his OE.

We would be flying to Zurich. I chose the trip because it was a good representation of European operations, notwithstanding the fact that it was time for a change. Paris had been on my schedule more often than not. In addition, it was early November. Soon, the temperature would make a Zurich layover less desirable.