Qantas cooperates with new cockpit policy

Qantas cooperates with new cockpit policy

The Qantas Group has confirmed it will ensure two approved people are in the cockpit on all flights at all times in-flight, except aircraft with less than 50 seats.

The new ruling includes up to 300 aircraft across Qantas, QantasLink, Network Aviation and Jetstar flights, but excludes QantasLink’s fleet of 18 Q200s and Q300, “which generally operate on short sectors of one or two hours where the need for pilots to leave the cockpit is minimal”, the airline stated.

“When one pilot needs to leave the cockpit for any reason, another authorised person will occupy the jump seat (as distinct from the control seats occupied by the Captain and First Officer) until they return,” the airline said.

“Qantas Group flights have between two and four operating pilots on board, depending on duration and aircraft type.”

“We have a comprehensive safety management system that guards against risks to our operations.”

According to Qantas, “numerous layers of screening and support for pilots, ranging from regular medical checks to stress management training, confidential counselling and pilot-to-pilot support networks” take effect within the organisation.

“Together with regulators and other airlines, Qantas will closely study any learnings that stem from the Germanwings tragedy to help make aviation even safer,” the airline said.

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