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This is just crazy for so many reasons. Before we dive in, let me say, I have no issues with pilots taking videos from the cockpit on their phones (or photos). There are lots of times when the plane is at altitude and on auto pilot and not much is going on other than monitor instruments and listen to the radio for updates. But then there are times, IMO, they should not be playing with their cell phones. Take a look (click / tap red “Mira” play button) at this video from Clarin.com on flight AU2779 Aerolineas Argentinas, a Skyteam partner.
Next, why did they not do a “go around” and circle for a while with that kind of fireworks going on so close to the landing pattern. Much of the same thoughts were shared in the Clarin.com post that said (via Goggle translate):
“According to company sources told Clarín, it is not expected that the pilots of the plane will be sanctioned, but an investigation has been opened. Both the pilot and the copilot of flight 2779, which had taken off from the province of Formosa towards Buenos Aires, must make their discharge.”
Also,
“The procedure says that the pilots cannot be doing anything other than paying attention to the instruments.”
Then lastly,
“…that fireworks that leave from the River court are more risky than pilots are filming with the cell phone: ” They should suspend landings during that time or prevent the club from throwing fireworks that could impact the aircraft. A crosswind could have made a mess…” (bold mine)
Again, just wow! Then again, maybe I am making way too much of this and it is just the visual that is shocking me. You tell me. Does this surprise you? Are you a pilot and this is no big deal? I would love to know readers thoughts! – René
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As a former crew member who got the chances to sit in the cockpit for takeoffs and landings more than just a few times, I bet there were 1 or 2 people on the cockpit jumpseats (depending on aircraft)/they could of taken photos/seen it happen before
They were still on A/P
Pictures from the cockpit is nothing new. When I had a camera store near JFK years ago I had pilots developing landing pictures all the time. Just dont know if it was one or both taking pics.
The more alarming thing is how can fireworks be allowed to light up so close to flight path.