PILOTSEYE – AEROLOGIC 777 HONG KONG
A review by Marlon Carter
Format : DVD/Blu-ray
SUBTITLES: ENGLISH • GERMAN • FRENCH • SPANISH • CHINESE
REGIONCODE: FREE / ALL AREAS
FORMAT: PAL (But will play on any PC with DVD/Blu-ray Player, at least)
HIGHLIGHTS
This program starts off with a fitting introduction by the Chief pilot of Aerologic, Joe Moser, as he briefs the viewers on the details of the flight from Leipzig to Bergamo and then onward to Hong Kong.
While the Captain and Senior First Officer complete their final cockpit preparations, the Second Officer completes the exterior walkaround of the 777 while clips are also seen of the aircraft being loaded with cargo. A great feature of this program is that during communication with ATC at the airport, clips of the air traffic controller are also seen in real time. Another unique feature which has earned Pilotseye high praises is the exterior camera mounted on the nose gear that gives us a rearward view of the aircraft for exciting takeoffs and landings.
During the flight to Bergamo, the Captain chats with the viewers on his role as chief pilot and the operations of the airline and the B777F as one of the most modern cargo airliners. Along with the enlightening discussions, there were many spectacular views from the cockpit of the Swiss Alps just prior to our descent.
After landing in Bergamo and departing for Hong Kong there were more presentations that touched on the role of the Second Officer. I found it quite interesting that the S.O is not allowed to land or takeoff the aircraft, but he/she can only fly from the right seat above 20,000ft.This special Second Officer program is a first in Germany and it allows low time pilots to gain experience up until they quality to be First Officers.
After taking a short rest and approaching Dakar, the captain discusses his fascination with the 777 along with its history. He also discusses the history and unique approach at the old Kai Tak Airport which viewers will find very insightful.
Prior to our arrival at Hong Kong, it was noted that there was a very high possibility of a typhoon forming in the area. Thankfully this did not occur and landing was uneventful.
After landing in Hong Kong, we join the crew on an exciting Tour of the city that never sleeps. Part of this tour includes a visit to a venue that gives a clear view of the old VHHH airport. During this visit, the Captain reminisced about flying into this airport much to the enlightenment of his younger colleagues.
As the tour draws to end, the crew makes their way to the aircraft for the return flight to Leipzig. Highlights of this flight include views from the tug on pushback, views from the control tower and a tricky takeoff by the First Officer due to weather conditions. Other presentations of interest include discussions on the weather radar, on time operation, communication charts, PFD and NAV display and much more! One of the most memorable scenes in of this program features a stunning sunset view from the cockpit that causes even our pilots to pause and reflect. Another memorable moment was the landing in Leipzig with very poor visibility. Despite the bad weather however, the First Officer did a fantastic job at landing the aircraft and bringing this amazing journey to an end.
So is this program worth it? Definitely! This program is by far one of the best B777 documentaries around and it nicely showcases the B777 and the professionalism of the flight crew. If you are interested in the B777 and you enjoy cargo operations, this is definitely the program for you.
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Bonus clips are also available and they contain presentations on the Flight Plan document, ECAM pages and a commentary on Kai Tak airport and the famous checkerboard approach.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & PREVIEWS