FLYLOW22 said:There is a bit more involved with int'l flying than just "pick(ing) up the mike and push the button to talk". I agree that proper training is required. Int'l is not hard but it sure helps to know your game efore going. The language barrier alone is enough to make you scream sometimes.
The original quote referred to someone not knowing how to use an HF. It had nothing to do the other stuff.
Everyone tries to make this international stuff such a big deal. It's not. I do know that NJA makes extensive use of handlers so there is really not much for the crew to do except drive the bus. I've even seen them using handlers for a Bahamas or Cayman Island trip. That is a real waste of money. Besides, I wouldn't consider any trip to the islands, Mexico or Canada to be international as far as pilot skills/knowledge is concerned.
FYI...I do have several thousand hours operating to/from/throughout all of Europe, Africa, Asia....and just about everywhere else. Unfortunately, I still have to do it about 15 or more times every year.