Innovation Management in Defensive Organizations

Innovation Management in Defensive Organizations

Identifying and Elucidating Cognitive Components Affecting Pilot Performance in Emergency Situations: A Qualitative Study Based on the Perspectives of Aviation Experts

Author
Hassan Mahjub
Associate Professor, Higher Education Management, Shahid Sattari Aeronautical University, Tehran, Iran.
10.22034/qjimdo.2024.435883.1538
Abstract
Background & Purpose: Cognitive skills and abilities are key determinants of effective and safe pilot performance; various flight phases and conditions—particularly emergency situations—require the application of distinct patterns of cognitive capabilities. Given the importance of properly managing emergency situations for flight safety, this study aimed to identify and elucidate the cognitive skills and abilities required by pilots during such emergencies.
Methodology: This study was applied in nature and employed a qualitative approach. The study population consisted of active, experienced pilots from an aviation organization in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Eleven elite and experienced pilots participated, selected via purposive sampling based on their flight experience and expertise. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, transcribed immediately after each session, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. To enhance the validity of the analysis, coding was reviewed by a secondary coder, and any discrepancies were reconciled. Data collection and analysis continued until thematic saturation was achieved.
Findings: Analysis of the interview data led to the identification of 15 main categories, structured within a hierarchical model of pilots' cognitive skills for emergency situations. These categories include: decision-making, communication ability, mental visualization, spatial planning, perceptual abilities, aptitude, identification and behavioral skills, divided attention, focused attention, alternating attention, sustained attention, cognitive flexibility, working memory, cognitive-motor coordination, and logical-spatial reasoning.
Conclusion: The interaction and synergy of these components enhance the pilot's capacity for accurate situational awareness, information processing, decision-making, outcome prediction, and effective emergency management. Therefore, systematically addressing cognitive skills throughout the processes of pilot selection, recruitment, training, empowerment, assessment, and advancement can foster improvements in flight safety and performance effectiveness.
Keywords
Cognitive Skills
Pilots
Flight Performance
Emergency Conditions
Human Factor
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