The Right Pilot

A Crew Resource Management Perspective

Introduction

The Pilot plays a critical role within CRM. By virtue of this, pilots are expected to possess a number of inherent character traits in order to be good pilots. The makings of a good pilot begin at the recruitment stage. Thereafter, precise training and continuous reinforcement of hard and soft skills ensures that a pilot remains at the peak of his game. As a pilot progresses in his/her career, they may be expected to take up leadership or management roles. The traits of being a good leader/manager in aviation stem from their initial selection and how they were moulded as pilots throughout their careers. It is for this reason that selecting, training and developing a pilot is especially important in ensuring good crew resource management.

Selecting the Right People

Video embedded from YouTube on 20 August 2012

Pilots require specific character traits. These include being calm under pressure, possessing quick and safe decision-making skills, and most of all, having a strong passion for flying.

Training and Reinforcement

Pilots, in both commercial and military environments, are expected to perform exceptionally, as the cockpit and airspace environment are highly demanding and incredibly unforgiving places. Therefore, beginning with an intense and rigorous initial training, to establish skills and adherence to procedures, pilots receive reinforcement of their skills and knowledge when they fly and through regular periodic assessments during their careers.

Flying as a Profession

Video embedded from YouTube on 20 August 2012

A Light-Hearted Conclusion

Video embedded from YouTube on 20 August 2012

References

CASA Airtime: “Leadership’’ – Part 7 of 12 Retrieved from YouTube on 20 August 2012.

Detwilers Pilot Comedy in a Simulator. Retrieved from YouTube on 20 August 2012.

Howcast How to Become a Pilot: Options for Pilot Jobs. Retrieved from YouTube on 20 August 2012

The Stephen Low Company IMAX Fighter Pilot: Operation Red Flag. Retrieved from YouTube on 20 August 2012.

Thurber, M. (2006) Nine Keys to Hiring Pilots with the Right Stuff. Business Jet Traveller October/November 2006.

Want to know more?

Skybrary : Crew Resource Management Article
YouTube : How To Become A Pilot
Airline Pilot Central : The Pilot Personality
YouTube Qantas Pilots Behind the Scenes - A Short Film