The Importance of Embracing Proficiency Culture

Instructors and pilots must train often to avoid mistakes and stay safe.

Meg Godlewski

Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at 09:08 AM ET

Verified

Remember this warning: Be humble in aviation, or aviation will humble you. [iStock]

Key Takeaways:

Pilots must actively pursue proficiency beyond mere currency, addressing skill degradation through targeted dual instruction or self-directed practice with clear metrics.
Maintaining proficiency requires both practical flying skills and continuous review of theoretical knowledge from sources like the FAR/AIM and aviation handbooks.
Avoid "normalization of deviance," where rationalized shortcuts or avoidance of challenging procedures (e.g., controlled airspace) can erode safety and lead to dangerous habits.
Effective proficiency training involves clear communication of goals between the pilot and CFI, with instructors tailoring lessons to specific needs rather than imposing their own agenda.

See a mistake? Contact us.

You know three takeoffs and landings will restore your currency, but how many does it take to reach proficiency? For most of us the answer is “it takes as many as it takes.” You may realize you have lost proficiency when you scare yourself—maybe it was a bounced landing or a crosswind that made you go around three times or getting scolded by the tower because you didn’t make a proper radio call that rattled your confidence.

If this happens, you may want to consider going up for an hour of dual instruction with a CFI who specializes in the area you had difficulty in—like crosswinds or short field landings.