Commercial Fixed Wing
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Aircraft Equipment Problem Dissipated
Aircraft; Environment - Non Weather Related
After departure from ZZZZ to ZZZZ1 it was discovered that the lights in the Captain's autopilot button on the MCP (Mode Control Panel) may have initially been operating intermittently. The light may not have illuminated upon initial press of the button; but shortly afterward came on and remained on for the duration of that flight and the subsequent leg to ZZZZ2. The autopilot along with copilot side MCP autopilot switch/lights were verified operational. In light of recent changes to health screenings for COVID-19 in ZZZZ1 the flight crew came to a unanimous decision that since the malfunction had rectified itself and posed no further issues the malfunction would not be written up as a discrepancy at that time unless the problem persisted. This decision/action was likely a direct result of at least 1 crewmember's concerns about safety/security and the uncertainty of officials actions in ZZZZ1 during this COVID-19 pandemic.The actions by the flight crew are a direct result of unprecedented times amidst the COVID-19 pandemic forcing crews to analyze safety in a new way and juggling decisions in an attempt to find a positive outcome.Further actions could/should have been taken by the crew to at a minimum at least consult the DDG (Dispatch Deviations Guide) with regard to the lighting. After a post flight review of the DDG I am under the opinion that this item could be an MEL item allowed by flight crew deferral. Alternate actions could also have been an in flight phone conversations with Dispatch; Maintenance; etc.; to work through any issues with regards to the aircraft and with regards to crewmember security concerns as a result of COVID-19. Safety should always remain paramount even during these unprecedented times.
Air carrier First Officer reported the flight crew decided not to write up a minor in-flight equipment malfunction as a discrepancy; which might not be deferrable. The decision was due; in part; to the crew's uncertainty around recent changes in COVID-19 screening procedures at the destination airport.