If one guy/gal takes over from the other then the button will illuminate on the side that has been taken over showing an arrow pointing to the other side. There will also be an aural synthesised voice call out of ‘priority left/right’. This is achieved by the pilot who wants to take over pressing (and holding down) his takeover button on his sidestick. It remains in place until he releases the button or 30 seconds when control latches to his side.

If the takeover button was not pressed but the other pilot operated his joystick then the aircraft will follow a path according to the algebraic sum of both joysticks and the synthesised aural ‘dual inputs’ will sound.

My airline has an SOP that we always monitor guard (121.5) on a spare VHF to keep a listening ear out for any aircraft we can offer help to. There is a benefit to us too as if an ATC unit can’t raise us on the currently assigned frequency they will usually try 121.5 next. If you have a second VHF in your aircraft you are better off monitoring guard at a low volume level (to differentiate between transmissions between box 1 and box 2) than having the thing switched off.

Definitely a good pint at The Royal Oak. Is it still a free house?

Over the last two and a half years of ultra long haul flying, I can honestly say that the control column has never bothered me. I understand that you might find it great having a table in front of you but for me it’s really not an issue, in fact I like having it there as my map is displayed right in front of me and I can rest my reading material on it for an easy read. 😉 I also find it a good indication of what the aircraft is doing and seeing how the autopilot is reacting to turbulence etc. 😀

I guess it’s horses for courses mate. 😀

I used to say exactly the same thing!

I have done many, many flights out of there in gliders and glider tugs so it was a bit bizarre when I flew a 757 out of there a couple of years ago.