Hey, I feel that I should probably clarify a bit on what I posted about being a "paid passenger" earlier. I totally agree that a crewed aircraft is safer, but often times the pilots are trained single-pilot and introducing 2 pilot CRM actually disturbs their flow. There are operators that are single pilot 135, who use contract co-pilots when requested by the customers or as required by insurance. I've been through 135 training, but am not acting in an official capacity as an SIC. Legally, as a non-required crewmember, I'm not even supposed to operate the radios. The operator should really hire full-time SIC's, but that is just not practical financially.
I hope I'm not considered a bad guy, since I fly for a fair daily rate when called upon to do so. The opspecs don't require 2 pilots in their King Airs and there is no training program for SIC in them, so when I am used, we pretty much just wing it. Before it starts, let me clarify a little. We always discuss, before flight, what my duties are and what is expected during the flight. I can't openly admit, on a public forum, that I do anything in the cockpit of a 135 aircraft other than occupy a seat. Obviously, as an experienced pilot, my presence is appreciated and in more than a few occasions, it was a good thing I was there.
I guess the "passenger" remark stems from earlier discussions about logging the time. On a round trip 135 flight, I can't log anything. I consider it good experience, and I contribute to the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft, but technically I am only a "paid passenger". I have mentioned to management about offering training and doing a ?8410? ride on me so that I could log it, but that just won't happen for me and the 2 or 3 other independent pilots that they use.
As far as logging the PIC time, part 61 allows for this. Many applications will differentiate between part 1 (signed for the aircraft, acting as PIC) and part 61 (sole manip. in A/C you're rated in, logging PIC) Although I have the high alt endorsement, it's not required to LOG part 61 time. (I realize you mentioned that to ACT as PIC) Now, on the weekends and when I'm flying the B90 with 14 skydivers in the back, single pilot, I classify that as part 1 PIC. I think I'll be alright in an interview, I have access to copies of the FlightSafety manuals for the B90, C90B, B200 and 300/350 and try to keep up to speed on them as much as I can. I met the requirements of 61.55 while flying in the 300. My training has all been "in-house", but I feel pretty comfortable in the aircraft that I am directly responsible for and am the final authority as to the operation of. (acting as PIC)
-PJ