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>A pilot at American Airlines, which uses the same DynamicSource performance data tool, and who also spoke anonymously because he didn’t have authorization, exp
by game_the0ry 4y ago
>A pilot at American Airlines, which uses the same DynamicSource performance data tool, and who also spoke anonymously because he didn’t have authorization, explained that the computer then calculates just the right amount of engine thrust so the pilots don’t use more than necessary.
>“The goal is to lower the power used on takeoff,” he said. “That reduces engine wear and saves money” on fuel and maintenance.
Cost cutting can do more harm than good, and occasionally puts lives in danger - they need to teach that in MBA classes.
- anaganisk 4y agoYour advice is good, but the spirit is wrong. They do that to save fuel not just to cut costs but also to reduce consumption, which is net positive if you factor in environmental conerns. Some locations require it for noise abatement. Also, reducing the wear on the engine means more cycles and less maintenance/chance of engine damage. These parameters are well tested and are very well understood. Planes take off at mere 150kts, compared to what their cruise at, which is more than 250 knots. If you can take off at lesser thrust, it's not bad to do it. It's not like Airlines are making huge profits out of it too.
- game_the0ry 4y agoUpvoted - I see what you are saying and I am mostly convinced, except: > It's not like Airlines are making huge profits out of it too. True, but airline margins are also very thin, so there is some incentive to "pinch pennies." And I do not put it past management to cost cut as much a possible for those sweet, sweet quarterly stock increases. Given the recent record of lately in terms of safety, timely service, cancellations, forced retirements for pilots, etc, the trends are not looking good for the airline consumer.