- Is Standby a Duty?
- Why is Standby 12+6hrs? Can we not have the +6nrs? What if I’m not rested for the sign on within the +6hrs?
- What are my responsibilities during a Standby?
- What happens if I missed the standby callup?
- How are standbys planned in relation to OFF days?
- Can I reject a standby activation that infringes into an OFF day? What if I have something planned?
According to CAAS and the Company, standby is not a duty even though there is a need to remain contactable during Standbys which are rostered. STSU will continue its engagements with CAAS and Company to better align the definitions of standbys with the appropriate crew responsibilities.
Based on ANR and OMA, a standby period can be up to a maximum of 18 hours. Having a 12+6 standby works in the favour of the crew as the crew’s commitment to be available for standby call up is 12 hours instead of 18 hours.
Regardless of whether the standby is 12+6 hours or 18hours, there is no way a crew can predict what type of duty they might be called up for. As such it is up to the individual crew to make the necessary fatigue assessment on whether they are well rested enough to accept the duty they are called up for.
Crew have to remain contactable during a rostered standby. They are free to plan their daily activities including errands, commitments and rest as they deem fit.
Flight Ops Management recognises that manning the phone every single minute during a Standby might not be practical. If a crew misses a standby callup from OCC, they are encouraged to call back OCC immediately to indicate their availability to operate a flight.
If the flight duty is no longer available, they are encouraged to contact their Chief Pilot to share why they were unable to respond during the standby callup by OCC and their availability for Standby callup. They might be put back onto their original standby duty period thereafter.
Flight Ops Management have shared that they have never taken anyone to task for missing a standby callup. STSU would like to thank all members for supporting standby requirements which is an important aspect to manage disruption and not abusing the process.
STSU is always available to assist in mediation if you feel that you have been penalised. Please contact any members of your branch to raise your concerns.
At the roster planning stage, to preclude standby activations affecting fixed off, standbys will not be planned,
For A320: -1 and -2 days prior to fixed off.
For B787: -1, -2 and -3 days prior to fixed off. (Require confirmation)
The above will not apply if roster is disrupted due to operational duty changes and from crew taking MC / standing down due to fatigue.
A standby activation that infringes into an off day must be accepted by the crew. IPD will be paid for the OFF Day.
If the standby activation affects a crew’s Off Day plans, they may choose to contact the Duty Pilot to share their difficulties in accepting the activation. The Duty Pilot will then assist in making alternative arrangements where and when possible.
Flight Ops Management had shared with STSU that such arrangements have worked and there have been multiple instances where the Duty Pilot have assisted crew to make the necessary arrangements to achieve both operational and personal needs.