I read earlier that the MCAS system used to be over-ridden by manual inputs, but with the Max that changed. Now, the system has to be disabled before it stops interfering, but Boeing didn't initially update their manuals to mention this fact. That would have a significant impact on pilot reaction, surely?
This is largely true, actually MCAS doesn't exist on earlier variants of the B737. In fact, Boeing not only didn't update their manuals, they neglected to tell pilots that the system actually exists.
Great posts in this thread esmozz.
With no concrete information to go on for both accidents, how do you feel having to pilot one of these planes?
As an ignorant passenger, I'd be thinking twice about flying in one of these. Statistics say it's safe, but hysteria is powerful.
Might be a very stupid question, but do you go through any sort of training for how to maintain a sound mind in this scenario?
Thanks. Not hugely worried about flying the Max but it is at the back of my mind. My company operate a mixed fleet of B737 and I'm flying older variants for the remainder of the month - I'm quite okay with that
. Regarding training, I guess the only thing to fail back on to try to remain calm is experience, certainly I've never had specific training in that regard. As you build your career as a civilian pilot you will exposed to a variety of different situations, first on light aircraft, then as a first officer, then (in my case) as a captain on smaller aircraft and working your way up. Hopefully by the time the brown stuff really hits the fan and you're in charge, you should be comfortable enough (and experienced enough) in your environment to be able to remain calm. Doesn't always work that way.
As an aside, I laughed when I watched Sully, the movie. One pilot calmly remarks to the other that one engine has gone, then calmly remarks that the other engine has gone. In real life I suspect the air turned blue in that flight deck. It certainly would in mine under the same circumstances.
Out of interest can pilots refuse to fly an aircraft if they don't feel it's safe?
Obviously not in terms of obvious mechanical problems or weather, but in the case of the 737 MAX, if they're being grounded elsewhere is this enough for a pilot to refuse to fly one? I know tube drivers are able to refuse to drive a train if they feel it's unsafe or there's a fundamental issue that's not been addressed.
Unfortunately, no. The decision to ground an aircraft under these circumstances is taken at a much higher level within the flight operations department. An individual pilot who decided not to fly the Max based on it being grounded elsewhere would probably find themselves in hot water. Thats not to say you can't refuse to fly a particular aircraft based on its fit or a previous maintance action. You can, you just better have a good reason.