Safety perceptions of training pilots based on training institution and experience

Abstract

This study examines training pilot survey data in order to determine how students’ years of education and the institutions that they attend affect their perceptions of the risk factors in aviation as assessed using the SHELL model (software, hardware, environment, and liveware). The results reveal that student pilots lack confidence with respect to their knowledge during flights; moreover, they fail to recognize the importance of maintaining relationships among supporting staff such as air traffic controllers, mechanics, and others involved in the flight process. The findings suggest that to meet an increased demand for pilots, newly approved training centers are needed, centers which will foster awareness of interaction between human factors and other aspect of aviation safety; to support this, there should be more standardization of curricula.