Introduction

When it comes to determining the biggest cause of aviation incidents and accidents, the answer, in my opinion, is unequivocally human error. This concept encompasses issues beyond pilot error, including design, manufacturing, and maintenance errors. With over nine years as a CRM facilitator at my airline, I have closely studied various types of aviation accidents, ranging from general, military, and private flights to commercial operations under Part 135 and Part 121 regulations. Despite the widely known "90" statistic, I believe that the mindset it promotes is flawed and potentially harmful to aviation safety efforts.

The "Pilot Error" Controversy

One of my primary issues with the "pilot error" statistic is its one-sided focus. While it counts errors made by pilots, it fails to acknowledge their critical role in averting disasters. Analogously, evaluating a baseball player solely based on his strikeouts, without considering his successful hits, would provide a distorted performance assessment. Similarly, when Chief Pilots judge their crews based solely on errors without recognizing the positive contributions, it fosters an unfounded negative perception. This 90% error rate is often misinterpreted and used to justify a pessimistic view of the entire aviation industry, emphasizing pilot failures over their successes.

The Role of Automation in Human Error

The increasing reliance on automation in the aviation industry has been a double-edged sword. While automation has undeniably improved safety, it has also introduced the risk of system failures. A poignant demonstration of this concept occurred during a CRM training session where we screened a film about automation's evolution. The production, narrated by Dr. Earl Weiner, illustrated an eerily realistic scenario: Flight attendants performing cabin service while a pilot made a typical cruise announcement, with the camera gradually moving through the cockpit, revealing no pilot in the seats. The autopilot controls were on autopilot, with the plane's systems mysteriously going dark at the end. The film concludes by showing that while the crew can be eliminated, human error cannot be fully eradicated. This visceral portrayal underscores the multifaceted nature of human error in aviation.

Multifaceted Human Error in Aviation

Human error is a complex issue that extends beyond pilot actions. It encompasses a range of factors including design mistakes, manufacturing flaws, and maintenance oversights. Each of these elements can contribute to an accident. For example, a poorly designed cockpit interface can lead to user errors, while a manufacturing defect in a vital component might fail in critical situations. Maintenance errors, such as overlooking a small part or misinterpreting repair instructions, can also have catastrophic consequences. Therefore, it is essential to address human error comprehensively, addressing all facets of the aviation industry's operations.

A Need for Balanced Safety Mindset

A balanced approach to human error and safety is crucial. This involves recognizing that while errors can occur, they are often mitigated or even prevented by trained professionals. The aviation industry must strive to create a culture where errors are viewed as learning opportunities rather than sources of blame. This shift in mindset can lead to more effective training, better safety protocols, and improved overall performance. By fostering an environment that encourages openness and accountability, the aviation sector can significantly reduce the incidence of accidents and refine its safety measures.

Conclusion

Aviation safety is a multifaceted challenge that requires a holistic approach. While human error is undoubtedly a significant issue, it is critical to acknowledge the numerous ways in which various stakeholders contribute to safe operations. Focusing solely on pilot error not only distorts the truth but also ignores the broader role of design, manufacturing, and maintenance. By adopting a balanced perspective, the aviation industry can work towards a future where safety is prioritized and errors are embraced as opportunities for continuous improvement.