Non-Technical Skills Proficiency in Aviation Pilots: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This systematic review aims to examine the role of non-technical competencies in pilot selection and flight operations, and explore the methods used for their assessment. It has been discerned that relying solely on technical flying skills is insufficient for a pilot; there is a growing understanding that a pilot candidate must possess and adeptly employ non-technical skills, commonly referred to as Crew Resource Management (CRM) skills. This systematic review was designed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. For this review, a systematic search was conducted across seven databases. Seventeen publications were included in the research based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. In the analysis of non-technical skills, communication consistently stood out as the most crucial and frequently highlighted competency. This skill was followed by decision-making, situational awareness, stress management, and leadership at the frequency level.

Author

• Ceken, Seda Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Keywords

• Non-technical skills (NOTECHS)
• Crew resource management (CRM)
• Human factors
• Flight performance
• Pilot training
• Cognitive Psychology
• Human Factors Psychology
• Industrial and Organizational Psychology
• Other Psychology
• Social and Behavioral Sciences