The relationship between pilot attitudes and the execution of flight safety checklists

Abstract

A foundation of safe aircraft operation is correct checklist usage by the pilot. Correct checklist usage increases safe operations, which, in turn, creates a more efficient and economically-stable air transportation system. Pilots do not always properly execute their flight safety checklists before takeoff, during flight, and before landing airplanes, resulting in aviation accidents. The resultant business and social costs merit examination of the factors, attitudes, and training needed to minimize or eliminate accidents due to improper checklist execution. This quantitative research identified and evaluated the factors related to the improper execution of flight safety checklists with a survey of 109 certificated pilots regarding their usage and attitudes with respect to flight safety checklists. An important finding was that although no statistical difference was found, pilots with greater self-confidence and less risk orientation tended to place greater importance on the execution of flight safety checklists.