ASOG Article of the Month | July 2023
ASOG Author | Patrick Ryan
Even though everyone talks about pilot judgment, what about the rest of the crew, i.e., the non-rated folks like Sensor Operators, Tactical Flight Officers, Helicopter Hoist operators, Flight Nurses, etc.? Do they require sound judgment to do their job in the aircraft? In my opinion - Yes!
In my view, all rated and non-rated crews should understand what good aeronautical judgment is. Even though many aviators think differently about what is good aeronautical judgment, here's my "2 Cents."
What is Aircrew Judgement?
Aircrew judgment, also known as aircrew decision-making or aeronautical decision-making (ADM), refers to the process by which an aircrew member assesses a situation, identifies potential courses of action, and chooses the most appropriate course of action based on the available information, experience, and training. It is a critical skill that aircrews must possess to ensure the safe and efficient operation of an aircraft.
Aircrew judgment involves evaluating weather conditions, aircraft performance, navigation, communication, and other relevant information to make informed decisions during a flight. Good judgment helps aircrews avoid risky situations, respond effectively to emergencies, and make sound choices that promote aviation safety.
Influencers
Factors that can influence aircrew judgment include:
Experience and Training - An aircrew's experience and training play a significant role in their ability to assess situations accurately and make effective decisions.
Situational Awareness - Understanding the current situation, weather conditions, aircraft status, and the environment is crucial for making informed decisions.
Risk Assessment - Aircrews need to evaluate the risks associated with each option and choose the one that minimizes potential hazards.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) - Following established SOPs helps aircrews maintain consistency and safety in their decision-making process.
Stress and Fatigue - Fatigue and stress can impair judgment, so aircrews must be aware of their mental and physical state.
Regulatory Compliance - Adhering to aviation regulations and guidelines is essential for safe operations.
Crew Resource Management (CRM) - Effective communication and collaboration are vital for sound decision-making in multi-crew operations.
A Continuous Process
Aircrew judgment is continuously refined through ongoing training, experience, and learning from past decisions. It is integral to being a responsible and skilled aircrew, contributing significantly to aviation safety and successful flight operations.
Again, even though everyone talks about pilot judgment, what about the rest of the crew? I believe it does based on over 30 years of experience in the aviation industry as a pilot, navigator and sensor operator. Understanding and improving on this concept is imperative to avoid someone ever saying to you - "You Lack Judgment!"
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