Switching to another jet model is tough work

Q: What is the process for a command pilot to transition from one plane model to another? Say, from a Boeing narrow body to an Airbus narrow body?

— Submitted by reader Tom, Lakewood, Colo.

A: I did one of the transitions you ask about. I was a Boeing 737 captain and transitioned to being an Airbus 320 captain.

There were two weeks of ground school with training in an advanced training device (a simulator that does not move) to learn the systems and performance of the new jet. Then there are comprehensive exams before going to the simulator. This is followed by 10 days of simulator training.

The next-to-last simulator flight is a check-ride, when an FAA-approved examiner evaluates your competency.

The last simulator flight is a more normal flight with issues that arise, causing decisions to be made such as a diversion to an alternate airport. This is known as Line Oriented Flight Training (LOFT).

Once ground school and the simulator are done, you join an instructor on a normally scheduled flight. You fly with an instructor for several trips until he or she is very comfortable that you are ready to fly a normal flight (25 to 100 hours is normal).

The process takes a minimum of six weeks and is very intense. I enjoyed it but was glad to finish.

Q: Is there a difference in the feel of the aircraft when you switch to a different aircraft model in the same line?

— Werner, Va.

A: There can be some differences. As an example, the roll control on the earlier B737s (100 and 200s) was lighter than on later models (300s and later). Also, the 737 grew and became a heaver airplane over time; this changes the feel to some degree, particularly in turbulence.