External Variables Can Change a Pilot’s Decision-Making Processes

People watching is a bit different when the eyes are on you.

Friday, November 15, 2024 at 08:51 AM ET

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FLYING contributor Ben Young says the decisions he makes as a pilot when I am alone versus when someone is watching are not the same, though both reflect a genuine part of myself. [Courtesy: Ben Younger]

Key Takeaways:

Pilots' decision-making is significantly influenced by whether they are being observed and by external social pressures.
The desire to appear competent or comply with perceived expectations can lead pilots to make unsafe decisions or demonstrate poor airmanship, as illustrated by the author's challenging landing.
Self-awareness of these behavioral influences and hazardous attitudes is crucial but often difficult for individuals to achieve honestly.
Ultimately, prioritizing self-preservation and safety must override social pressure, even when it means defying external demands or perceived judgment.

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I love people watching. I could sit in the park all day and just stare.

Might as well be at the zoo. Implicit in the activity is the understanding that the person being observed not be aware of the examination. It is believed that once someone knows eyes are on them, they act differently. The behavior exhibited is no longer genuine. I would argue that the behavior may be different, but it is no less real.

Ben Younger

Ben Younger is a TV and film writer/director, avid motorcyclist and surfer—but it’s being a pilot that he treats as a second profession. Find him on Instagram @thisisbenyounger.