Mainline Steam Drivers

[alexl92]

I note that DBS' steam drivers and firemen are selected from their regular diesel drivers and trained on steam locos.

How long does it take for a DBS driver to re-train to drive a steam locomotive? I seem to remember that in BR days, you had to have been a fireman for 10 years before becoming a driver, but I imagine it's simply not practical to enforce that in the modern industry.

 

[TDK]

I note that DBS' steam drivers and firemen are selected from their regular diesel drivers and trained on steam locos.

How long does it take for a DBS driver to re-train to drive a steam locomotive? I seem to remember that in BR days, you had to have been a fireman for 10 years before becoming a driver, but I imagine it's simply not practical to enforce that in the modern industry.

It's the elite that get that opportunity, the same as Concorde Pilots in comparison. There probably isn't a given amount of experience required but I would bet it is a long time on the footplate before even being considered. As for the training it will take as long as it takes but certainly not 10 years

 

[chorleyjeff]

I note that DBS' steam drivers and firemen are selected from their regular diesel drivers and trained on steam locos.

How long does it take for a DBS driver to re-train to drive a steam locomotive? I seem to remember that in BR days, you had to have been a fireman for 10 years before becoming a driver, but I imagine it's simply not practical to enforce that in the modern industry.

The minimum age under BR to be an engine driver was 23 and there were examples of people who qualified at that age. Also the minimum age to work on the footplate was 17 years.