Communication and Flexibility in Aircrews Facing Unexpected and Risky Situations

Abstract

This study examined the differences in communication patterns of “low-flexible” and “high-flexible” aircrews facing unexpected situations. During a flight simulation, 10 3-member aircrews were confronted with 2 events associated with low risk level (technical failure) and high risk level (threat to flight safety). In high-risk decision situations, low-flexible crews expressed their personal opinions more frequently than high-flexible crews, but they tended to argue by recalling procedures, whereas high-flexible crews more frequently argued by describing the context of the situation. However, overall, the frequency of dissent and argumentation was low, suggesting an impact of cognitive cost of these activities in risky situations.