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

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

Key Takeaways:

Proficiency in aviation goes beyond basic currency, requiring pilots to actively identify and address skill and knowledge gaps, often signaled by mistakes or a loss of confidence.
Effective proficiency training, whether solo or with a CFI, involves a thorough pre-briefing to define specific goals and measurable metrics, with a focus on targeted practice and clear communication.
Maintaining true pilot proficiency also includes continuous review of aeronautical knowledge and actively combating the "normalization of deviance"—rationalizing shortcuts or avoidance that can compromise safety.
Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) should support proficiency training by listening to the pilot's specific needs and tailoring instruction, fostering a positive culture that encourages ongoing learning and skill refinement.

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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.