Decision Making Process

  • The systematic approach to the mental process used by pilots to consistently determine the best course of action in response to a given set of circumstances
  • Effective ADM is not just about reacting to emergencies; it’s a continuous process applied during all phases of flight, from pre-flight planning through post-flight analysis

PAVE Checklist

PHAK 2-8

Pilot

currency, proficiency, physical health, emotional state
IMSAFE

Aircraft

airworthiness, equipment, performance
ARROW/PECM    AVIATE    ATOMATOFLAMES/FLAPS

Environment

weather, terrain, airport, runway, airspace, night
NWKRAFT

External Pressures

passengers, work, get-there-itis

DECIDE Model

PHAK 2-18

Detect

changes

Estimate

need to counter or react to the change

Choose

desired outcome

Identify

solutions

Do

necessary actions

Evaluate

effects

3P Model

5P Check

PHAK 2-13

Plan

weather, route, airports, ATC, regulations

Plane

airworthiness, equipment, performance, fuel, systems

Pilot

physical and mental condition, knowledge, proficiency

Passengers

breifing, experience, comfort, pressures

Programming

navigation, communication, autopilot, workload

Hazard & Risk Identification

Flight Risk Assessment Tool

PHAK 2-4

Hazard

a real or perceived condition, event, or circumstance that a pilot encounters

Risk

an assessment of the single or cumulative hazard facing a pilot

Risk Assessment Matrix

PHAK Figure 2-5 PHAK Figure 2-5

Hazardous Attitudes

PHAK 2-5

Anti-authority

Resenting rules and procedures  “Don’t tell me what to do”
Antidote – follow the rules; they are usually right

Impulsivity

Acting without considering consequences  “Do something – quickly!”
Antidote – Not so fast; think first

Invulnerability

Believing accidents only happen to others  “It won’t happen to me”
Antidote – It could happen to me

Macho

Trying to prove oneself by taking risks  “I can do it”
Antidote – Taking chances is foolish

Resignation

Feeling powerless to make a difference  “What’s the use?”
Antidote – I’m not helpless; I can make a difference