Competency-Based Education: A Framework for a More Efficient and Safer Aviation Industry

Flavio A. C. Mendonca, Julius Keller, Brian G. Dillman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Aircraft design and reliability as well as pilots’ education and training have steadily and significantly improved in the last 20 years. Nevertheless, high-profile accidents still occur, even when the aircraft and related systems are operating adequately. Controlled flight into terrain, runway incursion accidents, and loss of control in flight are examples of mishaps in which inadequate decision-making, poor leadership, and ineffective communication are frequently cited as contributing factors. Conversely, the investigation of accidents (e.g., US Airways Flight 1549, in the U.S. on Jan. 15, 2009) and serious incidents (e.g., TAM Linhas Aereas Flight 3756 in Brazil on June 17, 2011) have shown that flight crews must be flexible and adaptable, think outside the box, and communicate effectively to cope with situations well beyond their individual expertise.

Original languageAmerican English
JournalJournal of the International Society of Air Safety Investigators
Volume54
StatePublished - Jan 1 2021

Keywords

  • flight training
  • aircraft accidents
  • runway incursions
  • decision making
  • leadership
  • communication

Disciplines

  • Aviation Safety and Security
  • Leadership Studies
  • Organizational Communication

Cite this