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PilotSchool Knowledge Base

Error Management and Safe Flight Practices

Introduction

In aviation, understanding human factors is crucial for enhancing safety and preventing accidents. The principles of health and fitness, combined with effective threat and error management strategies, play a significant role in achieving this. This section focuses on the importance of identifying committed errors and the role of checklists and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in preventing such errors.

Committed Errors and Safe Flight

Example of a Committed Error

One example of a committed error in aviation is the omission of a hydraulic check, leading to a gear-up landing. This type of error highlights the necessity for pilots to adhere to standard procedures and double-check crucial systems before and during flight operations. Such errors can occur due to carelessness or cognitive overload during critical flight phases like landing or takeoff.

Measures for Safe Flight

To ensure safe flight and mitigate errors, pilots can adopt the following strategies:

  • Rigorous Adherence to Procedures: Following established SOPs meticulously helps in preventing errors caused by oversight or omission.
  • Training and Simulation: Engaging in regular, scenario-based training can prepare pilots to handle unexpected situations effectively.
  • Continuous Monitoring and Feedback: Implementing feedback mechanisms and line operations safety audits can reveal potential areas for improvement in flight operations.

Resource: On error management: lessons from aviation - NIH

Checklists and Standard Operating Procedures

Role of SOPs in Preventing Errors

Standard Operating Procedures form a safety cornerstone in aviation, supporting effective Crew Resource Management (CRM) and ensuring consistent flight operations. Key characteristics of SOPs include:

  • Regulatory Compliance: SOPs are mandated by aviation bodies, ensuring they cover all phases of flight AC 120-71 - ICAO.
  • Pilot Input and Customization: Development of SOPs should involve pilot feedback to address specific operational needs.
  • Clear and Accessible Guidelines: SOPs should be easily understood and clearly communicated to all crew members.

Importance of Checklists

Checklists are integral components of SOPs, designed to guide pilots through normal, non-normal, and emergency procedures. Their significance lies in the following:

  • Standardization: Checklists offer structured steps that enhance flight safety, minimizing reliance on memory.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: They cover essential operation phases like takeoff, landing, and emergency scenarios.

Cited Sources: AC 120-71 - ICAO, Asia Pacific Regional Aviation Safety Team - ICAO

Recommendations for Preventing Errors

  • Regular Updates and Revisions: SOPs should be revised continually based on feedback and in response to technological advancements.
  • Monitoring Adherence: Implement robust monitoring systems to ensure that SOPs and checklists are consistently followed by all crew members.

Conclusion

Effective threat and error management in aviation relies heavily on the proper application of SOPs and checklists. By mitigating errors through structured procedures and ongoing training, pilots can significantly enhance flight safety. Adopting these practices is essential for addressing human factors and minimizing the impact of errors in aviation operations.

Source: Resource booklet 8 Threat and Error Management - CASA