Pressing on with Module 2, we moved onto Flight planning and flight monitoring. In a similar vain to the other subjects we have studied in this module, there is a lot more practical application and the majority of our learning is geared towards the day-to-day aspects of the role.
For those of you that think a pilot fills the tanks to the brim, boards the self loading freight, then simply points the nose of the aircraft in the right general direction, there's a lot more to it! In very simple terms the subject encompasses fuel planning for the climb, cruise and descent, planning routes using the different types of en-route charts, as well as looking at points of safe return (ie. to go past it you've gone past the point of no return!). However, the most important aspect was working through the various section of the Jeppesen Airway manual, to gain a working appreciation of the different types of chart we will use on a daily basis.
Even though many flight deck documentation is now computerised, some carriers still have a requirement to carry hard copies of the airways charts, either because their computer system is still in proving, or there is a requirement for increased redundancy. Regardless, it is a learning objective of the ATPL exams that we have a full understanding of the charts, how to interpret the not insignificant amount of information they contain, and how to utilise them with confidence. Eventually we will use similar charts in New Zealand (although a lot less cluttered), and on our return will get used to using the current European charts, known for being incredibly congested. Think of it as a road map, but if you miss your turning you best find out where you are pretty quick, as you're probably shifting at 6 miles a minute!
As the SuperBowl is on tonight and I intend to watch it (finishing around 3am) I best get back to doing some more work. Fortunately we've got the day off tomorrow for self-study, otherwise i'd be catching the result in the morning! So enjoy the week...
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