Analyzing Knowledge Deficiencies in Pilot Performance

Abstract

In the last decade, knowledge deficiencies and attitudinal problems have become recognized as the primary sources of pilot performance breakdown. This article presents an introduction to the five-dimensional professional performance analysis (PPA) system for analyzing and prescribing remedies to minimize pilot error and optimize pilot performance. A detailed presentation of the knowledge dimension of the overall system is presented. The PPA system provides analyses at three levels of detail for each of the five dimensions. The PPA system is a novel combination of proven techniques and methodologies from organizational psychology, flight operations, business leadership, and the management sciences. Each of the 50-plus elements in the knowledge dimension has been validated several times in past generations. The combined process has been used successfully in accident investigations for more than 10 years. The PPA system provides an in-depth analysis tool that has proven value and is easily learned by reasonably experienced, capable leaders. © 1992, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. All rights reserved.