OBSERVATION FLIGHT GUIDELINES FOR TRAINEE SECOND OFFICERS
Background what is an observation flight
Observation flights are an integral part of a pilots training path when beginning their
career with Qantas. The intent of these flights is to assist new pilots to integrate all
their recent knowledge gathered from theory instruction, computer-based training,
flight simulator sessions and hours of personal study into a cohesive package to
take into their role as a qualified line pilot.
Such flights are the perfect opportunity to observe the actions and culture of an
operating crew as they go about their business.
In addition, the observation flights provide exposure to aspects of the job that are not
covered by conventional flight training. That is, responsibilities such as where to
report for duty, how to get to the aeroplane, behavioural expectations in the
workplace and perhaps even the unfamiliar experience of an international stop-over.
The details points youll need to consider
What to wear
Full Qantas flight crew uniform should be worn for your observation flight and
remember to pack your uniform jacket in case the arrival port weather is different to
the departure port! If your observation flight involves a passenger sector (known as a
pax), refer to the FAM for dress requirements when on this type of duty.
Documentation to carry
You are required to carry the following documentation with you:
Flight Crew Licence;
Current medical certificate;
Qantas/ASIC identification card;
Passport, along with the applicable visas.
In addition, ensure you have ready access to:
Red Trainee Second Officer book;
Notepad and pen;
Glasses/sunglasses as required
Be aware that space on the flight-deck will be limited and that the conventional pilots
nav bag may be a little large for the job!
Qantas Airways Limited ABN 16 009 661 901
Qantas Centre 203 Coward Street Mascot NSW 2020 Australia
Telephone 61 (2) 9691 3636
qantas.com
Arriving for duty
Being new to an organisation can be quite daunting, so preparation is the key. Be
prepared to be a little pro-active and ask plenty of questions.
As a courtesy, consider calling the Captain and perhaps the Second Officer a day or
two before the trip they may have certain things they would like you to be aware of.
Explain your situation to the scheduling officers and they will pass the required
contact details to you.
Obligations prior to the trip include:
A 15-4 call in. You are required to make a call to scheduling on
(02) 8303 4747 between 15 hours and 4 hours prior to your scheduled
departure time. This call basically informs scheduling that you will be able to
meet all of your legal and medical requirements for your trip and will be
reporting for duty on time. It also gives scheduling a chance to inform you of
any pattern changes. Simply call the schedulers and use the phrase Im
making my 15-4 call,
Plan to arrive at work significantly earlier than your required sign on time
(note: this is not a Qantas requirement). This should give you plenty of time
to find a car park and make your way to the appropriate places.
Sign on and Flight Planning take place in QCC3 Building C, Level 3 at
report time.
Keep a look out for your crew, introduce yourself in a courteous manner and
take their lead.
Your flight planning role will probably involve reading Notams and weather
forecasts, but try to become involved as much as possible, without overstepping the mark and becoming an interruption.
Dead-head passenger flights
The above refers to a scenario where you begin your operating pattern in Sydney.
You may, however, be required to passenger to join a flight departing another airport.
In this case, ensure you identify the following important facts:
Departure time of the flight you are listed on;
Which terminal the flight departs from (domestic or international);
How to get to the applicable terminal;
Whether other crew members are to passenger with you ( you can obtain this
information from scheduling);
Arrangements at the destination, such as location of briefing rooms or
transport and accommodation plans.
Qantas Airways Limited ABN 16 009 661 901
Qantas Centre 203 Coward Street Mascot NSW 2020 Australia
Telephone 61 (2) 9691 3636
qantas.com
Duty involving an overnight stay or slip
If the conclusion of a duty does not end in your home port, Qantas provides transport
and accommodation in that port. This event is variously known as s slip, stop-over
or overnight.
Should your observation flight include a slip, be sure to pack appropriate clothing
and give some thought to the expectations while you are away. While you are
technically off duty during a slip, you remain a respected representative of Qantas
and should conduct yourself as such at all times.
Additional information regarding slips including security, is available in the RMS.
Location and contact information for the hotels is available on the Qantas intranet
site.
Conclusion
It is accepted that many things are unfamiliar to pilots new to the company. You will
be rostered for a comprehensive Line Operations Training course at the conclusion
of your simulator training and prior to your first formal line-orientated training flight.
The aim of this course is to bridge the gap between simulator training and line flying,
covering both operational and administrative requirements.
However, prior to your observation flights, a good deal of initiative is required. Be
sure to ask plenty of questions and approach your assigned mentor if you have any
outstanding concerns.
Safe flying!
Qantas Airways Limited ABN 16 009 661 901
Qantas Centre 203 Coward Street Mascot NSW 2020 Australia
Telephone 61 (2) 9691 3636
qantas.com
