How Much 737 Do I Need to Know?

[air_2_mud]

I'm expecting a class date with SWA soon, but it's been 14 months since I got my type. I've been looking at the books a little (emphasis on "a little") and I'm wondering how much if any B737 refresher there is when I start training. Can anyone help me out?

 

[kelbill]

From what I recall the class is taught from top to bottom, but assumes of course that you have seen the material before. I think the type requirement helps us legally keep ground school to a minimum. Since you've got your type, just go through the systems a few weeks before showing up as a minimum. Obviously the better prepared you are, the less you need to rehash systems, and the more you can work on flows and procedures. I would study up as much as I could. Remember, he who answers questions right in the oral usually gets cut slack, while the one reaching for straws gets asked extra. Same with the day to day sim training with the instructor. They don't want to see any min-run kind of guys trying to squeak by. Good luck.

 

[CF34-3B1]

Also keep in mind they teach the -700 as the base airplane now, with -300/500 differences later.

If you got your type in a -200, it may be something to keep in mind when preparing for class.

You'll get a packet with everything you need to know prior to your class date.

Hit the memory items, checked limitations and flows they send and you'll be just fine.

Welcome aboard!!

 

[canyonblue737]

I'm expecting a class date with SWA soon, but it's been 14 months since I got my type. I've been looking at the books a little (emphasis on "a little") and I'm wondering how much if any B737 refresher there is when I start training. Can anyone help me out?

if you can't build it on day 1 you're hosed.

actually if you study anything study this: http://www.bwipilotbase.com/PDF_files/SWA_Memory_Items.pdf

and also if you are inspired about 4-8 weeks prior to class (and no sooner since the cards change) you can get "PASS" cards which i would guess i saw 75%+ of the guys get... they are excellent and if you know the material on the cards you will easily pass a SWA oral:
http://www.pass737.com/pages/1/index.htm

in the meantime enjoy your family and relax... the job is easy and they will do a great job of teaching you everything you need to know.

welcome!

 

[Alcatraz]

Another great study item is Bill Bulfer's book, the 737 Cockpit Companion. There is a version specifically tailored to Southwest pilots and the options that Southwest has on their various 737s.

It does a GREAT job of explaining systems, switches, and warning lights in easy to understand terms. It's way better (more comprehensive yet easier to read) than the manuals you'll get from SWA or Boeing, and I highly recommend them.

Of course, since they aren't kept updated, they are just "study guides."

They also sell an FMC guide for the 737 (and the "big" Boeings) which I have not gone through much, yet, but it has a good reputation, too.

Both are available at www.fmcguide.com for around $40 each.

A week or two after you get the call notifying you of your class date SWA will send you some panel diagrams and flow charts, which most (including me) would recommend studying a bunch before class.

But class is lots of fun, so look forward to training (I'm sure you are!). Congrats on the new job!

 

[air_2_mud]

Thanks

Thanks for all the info. I've ordered the flash cards (study package) and the cockpit companion. Also, don't worry about me being a min-runner, I'm just trying to prioritize. I have no intention of screwing up a good deal.

 

[TSA145]

Also on line you can check www.b737.org.uk for great info

 

[canyonblue737]

Thanks for all the info. I've ordered the flash cards (study package) and the cockpit companion. Also, don't worry about me being a min-runner, I'm just trying to prioritize. I have no intention of screwing up a good deal.

you will be way over prepared... truly the best, best, best advice is to enjoy your family and make them a priority since for 6 weeks during training you will be away. out of the last 1000+ pilots hired at SWA you can count on 1 hand the number who failed training due a true problem with knowledge level or flying skill (there were a few more who bounced due to poor attitude.) the summary is simple... your life experience and flying experience has all brought you to this point, and because of it SWA knows you will be able to get the job done and be a good team member... there is no screwing up a good deal here.