Flying Isn’t All or Nothing

In light of recent events, is it time to rethink how much pressure we put on pilots in career programs?

Michael Wildes

Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 09:48 AM ET

Verified

Can the industry change how it trains students so that some don't feel trapped? [File Photo: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

The aviation industry must urgently address pilot mental health, as the current culture's "all or nothing" mentality and fear of losing flying privileges prevent individuals from seeking crucial support, as tragically exemplified by John Hauser's case.
Pilots should be encouraged to cultivate diverse skills and view flying as one of many fulfilling paths within the broader aviation industry, rather than their sole identity, to build resilience against unforeseen career disruptions.
Current pilot training culture, with its emphasis on "the right stuff" and strict pass/fail metrics, significantly contributes to anxiety among students by implying little room for struggle or varied learning curves.
A reform in training posture and language, possibly by adopting a "just culture" approach to learning and progress, is needed to create a more supportive and less anxiety-inducing environment for aspiring pilots.

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When I wrote about the need for CFIs to develop their emotional intelligence, I mentioned the story of University of North Dakota student John Hauser, who died when he intentionally flew his training aircraft into the ground on a scheduled night solo flight in October.