Comparing the Cattell 16PF Profiles of Male and Female Commercial Airline Pilots

Abstract

In order to compare the personality profiles of both male and female commercial airline pilots, Cattell's 16 Personality Factor (16PF) Questionnaire, Form A was mailed to 250 randomly selected male and female commercial pilots (female n=125; male n=125). Returned, completed questionnaires were 92 female and 57 male. Contrary to expectations that female pilots would exhibit profiles similar to those of women in traditional female occupations, the female commercial pilot profile showed greater similarity similarity to the male commercial pilot profile. Of the 16 personality factors, seven factors (intelligence, elation, suspiciousness, practicality, shrewdness, self-sufficiency, and control) showed no significant differences. Six factors showed minor to marginal differences (warmth, stability, conformity, boldness, security, and conservativeness). Three factors showed major significant differences (dominance, sensitivity, and anxiety). On those factors which showed differences, female pilots scored comparatively lower than male pilots, but still well above those of U.S. males and females at large. Findings support the existence of a “Pilot's Personality” independent of gender.