Wrathall Mark wrote:

The IFR levels over the north atlantic have been doubled (Reduced Vertical
Separation Minimum). Before they were FL 290/310/330/350 etc. Now there is
only 1000' between them.  As the usable levels are staggered, one east one
west, in practice a pilot would have the choice between say FL310 or FL350 -
One being too low for best efficency the other being too high at current
weight. The new system allows more traffic, and also gives a greater chance
of getting the most efficent level for the current weight. Only aircraft
with a pitot static system of proven accuracy may fly these routes within
the most attractive altitude band. (Non- conforming aircraft must fly lower
or higher).

Airline pilots take pride in there professionalism. The current system
requires them to fly the numbers, and they do their best to conform to the
system as it now is. Under the current system inaccurace flying would
increase risk due to reduced separation.

I wonder what the psychologists would come up as human factors issues under
free flight, maybe ALL humans have a tendancy to chose Flight level 373, and
given the choice of routing ALL pilots go over Las Vegas , cause don't it
look purty!
Mark Wrathall

 
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