A Hummer and Zurich

Les Abend

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

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The article details a check airman's supervision of Larry, a pilot transitioning from the Super 80 to the 767 for international qualification, providing hands-on training for the new aircraft and complex operations.
Larry's operating experience involved methodical learning of pre-flight procedures, hand-flying, navigating unfamiliar JFK ground operations and European ATC, and adapting to challenges like a SELCAL malfunction and an unexpected CAT III landing in poor weather.
The narrative highlights the multifaceted role of an international captain, blending technical proficiency with the ability to methodically learn, problem-solve for unexpected issues (like oversized passenger baggage), and maintain composure under pressure.

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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.