Human Factors

Human Factors & Pilot Decision Making As the pilot in command you are responsible for ensuring a safe flight at all times and so making good decisions is critical. Having a pilot self-assessment is necessary you should be aware of personal limitations like: Health Recency of experience Knowledge Skill level Attitude Stress Can dramatically affect a Pilot's decisions. Two major types of stress include: Psychological Emotional, social, heavy workload Physical Environment related - noise, distractions, too hot, too cold, bugs Fatigue Can dramatically affect a pilot's decisions and often the pilot cannot recognize its effects; some symptoms include: Slowing of timing of movements, forgetfulness Irritability and lack of patience Tendency to over control the aircraft Tendency to accept a wider margin of error than normal Cures Acute fatigue can be cured by a meal and good sleep, but chronic fatigue is more serious and requires pharmaceutical treatment under a doctor's supervision. Avoidance Being in good physical condition Getting adequate rest Eating properly A healthy mental attitude