Predicting Pilot Training Performance: Does the Criterion Make a Difference?

Abstract

Abstract : Traditionally, the utility of personnel attribute data for predicting U.S. Air Force pilot training performance has been evaluated against dichotomous training indicators (i.e., graduation or elimination, fighter or nonfighter aircraft recommendation). Several alternate Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT) performance criteria based on flying performance data (i.e., daily flying grades, check flight grades, and academic grades) were evaluated to determine whether they could add to our understanding of the relationship between preselection personnel attribute data and UPT performance, beyond that provided by currently used dichotomous training performance indicators. UPT rankings were closely related to post-UPT follow-on training recommendations (better students were more likely to be recommended for fighter aircraft assignments). However, when the ranking algorithm was modified to include UPT eliminees, it demonstrated little utility in improving our understanding of the relationship between preselection personnel attribute data (i.e., test scores) and training performance beyond that provided by the UPT final outcome (graduation v. elimination) indicator. Undergraduate pilot training, Training performance, Pilot candidate selection, Personnel tests.