PPL Oral - Human Factors
You recently experienced a bad cold and were treated by your personal physician. You continue to take the medications your physician prescribed but you feel much better. Can you resume flying on your current medical or must you first see an FAA AME?
14 CFR 61.53 Anytime you experience an illness or an injury that you feel may affect your ability to safely fly an aircraft you must self-ground anytime the pilot: A. Knows or has a reason to know of any medical condition that would make them unable to meet the requirements for the medical certificate necessary for the pilot operation B. They are taking medication or receiving other treatment for a medical condition that results in them being unable to meet the requirements for the medical certificate necessary for the pilot operation If in doubt contact your AME
What regulations apply/what common sense should prevail concerning the use of alcohol?
14 CFR 91.17 The regulations prohibit pilots from performing crew member duties w/in 8hrs after drinking any alcoholic beverage. While under the influence of alcohol or having .04% weight or more alcohol in the blood. Due to the slow destruction of alcohol in the bloodstream, a pilot may still be under influence or over the .04% mark, 8hrs after drinking a moderate amount of alcohol. Therefore an excellent rule is to allow at least 12-24hrs before flying
What action should be taken if a pilot suspects CO poisoning?
A pilot who suspects this condition to exist should immediately shut off the heater/open all air vents. If symptoms are severe, or continue after landing, medical treatment should be sought
What is the definition of a hazard?
A present conditions, event, object or circumstance that could lead to or contribute to an unplanned or undesired event such as an accident
What is hypoxia?
A state of oxygen deficiency in the body sufficient to impair functions of the brain and other organs.
Define the term "aeronautical decision marketing" (ADM)
A systematic approach to the mental process used by aircraft pilots to consistently determine the best course of action in response to a given set of circumstances
What are several examples of aviation hazards?
A. A nick in the propeller blade B. Improper refueling of an aircraft C. Pilot fatigue D. Use of unapproved hardware on aircraft E. Weather
What factors can make a pilot more susceptible to hypoxia?
A. Carbon monoxide inhaled in smoking or from exhaust fumes B. Anemia ( lowered hemoglobin) C. Certain medications D. Small amount of alcohol E. Low doses of certain drugs (antihistamines, tranquilizers, sedatives, and analgesics F. Extreme heat/cold G. Fever H. Anxiety
What are several examples of common errors that can occur when using a checklist?
A. Checklist items are missed because of distraction/interruption B. Checklist items are incorrectly performed C. Failure to use the appropriate checklist for a specific phase of flight D. Too much time spent w/ head down, reading the checklist/compromising safety E. Checklist not readily accessible in the cockpit F. Emergency/abnormal procedures checklist not readily available G. Memory items accomplished but not confirmed w/ checklist
Explain the basic steps in the decision making process
A. Define the problem B. Choose a course of action C. Implement the decision D. Evaluate the outcome
A majority of controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) accidents have been attributed to what factors?
A. Lack of pilot currency B. Loss of situational awareness C. Pilot distractions/breakdown of SRM D. Failure to comply w/ minimum safe altitudes E. Breakdown in effective ADM F. Insufficient planning, especially for the descent/arrival segments
Describe several operational techniques that will help you avoid a CFIT accident
A. Maintain situational awareness at all times B. Adhere to safe takeoff/departure procedures C. Familiarize yourself w/ surrounding terrain features/obstacles D. Adhere to published routes/minimum altitudes E. Fly stabilized approach F. Understand ATC clearances/instructions G. Don't become complacent
A pilot can decrease the likelihood of a CFIT accident at the destination by identifying what risk factors prior to flight?
Factors such as airport location, runway lighting, weather/daylight conditions, approach specifications, ATC capabilities/limitations, type of operation, departure procedures, controller/pilot phraseology, crew configuration should all be considered prior to flight
What are several factors that reduce situational awareness?
Factors that reduce SA include fatigue, distractions, unusual or unexpected events, complacency, high workload, unfamiliar situations, and inoperative equipment
What additional procedures can be used for maintaining situational awareness in technically advanced aircrafT?
A. Perform verification checks of all programming prior to departure B. Check the flight routing - ensure all routing matches the planned route of flight C. Always verify waypoints D. Make use of all onboard nav equipment - use VOR to backup GPS and vice versa E. Match the use of the automated system w/ pilot proficiency - say w/in personal limits F. Plan a realistic flight route to maintain situational awareness - ATC doesn't always give you direct routing G. Be ready to verify computer data entries - incorrect keystrokes can lead to loss of situational awareness
In what phases of flight should a prepared checklist be used?
A. Preflight inspection B. Before engine start C. Engine starting D. Before taxiing E. Before takeoff F. After takeoff G. Cruise H. Descent I. Before landing J. After landing K. Engine shutdown/securing
What are several recommended methods for managing checklist accomplishment?
A. The pilot should touch/point at each control, display or switch B. Verbally state the desired status of the checklist item C. When complete, announce that the checklist is complete
Where does hypoxia usually occur/what symptoms should one expect?
Although a deterioration in night vis occurs at a cabin pressure as low as 5,000', other significant effects of altitude hypoxia usually do not occur in the normal healthy pilot below 12,000'. From 12,000'-15,000' of altitude, judgement, memory, alter ness, coordination, and ability to make calculations are impaired. Headache, drowsiness, dizziness, and either a sense of well being or belligerence occur. Effects are worse abv 15,000'
What are immediate action items?
An action that must be accomplished so expeditiously (in order to avoid/stabilize a hazardous situation) that time is not available for the pilot/crewmember to refer to a manual or checklist. Once the emergency has been brought under control, the pilot refers to the actual checklist to verify that all action items were accomplished. Only after this is done should the remainder of the checklist be completed
What is "ear block"?
As the aircraft cabin pressure decreases during ascent, the expanding air in the middle ear pushed the Eustachian tube open. The air then escapes down the nasal passages/equalizes in pressure w/ the cabin pressure. During descent the pilot must periodically open the Eustachian tube to equalize pressure. Either an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold or sore throat, or a nasal allergic condition can produce enough congestion around the Eustachian tube to make equalization difficult. Consequently the difference in pressure between the middle ear/aircraft cabin can build to a level that will hold the Eustachian tube closed, making equalization difficult if not impossible. An ear block produces severe pain and loss of hearing that can last from several hours to several days
Name 5 hazardous attitudes that can affect a pilots ability to make sound decisions/properly exercise authority
Attitude - antidote Anti-authority - follow the riles, they are usually right Impulsivity - think first, not so fast Invulnerability - it could happen to me Macho - taking chances is foolish Resignation - i can make a difference, I am not helpless
How can tasks be completed in a timely manner w/out causing a distraction from flying?
By planning, prioritizing, and sequencing tasks, a potential work overload situation can be avoided. As experience is gained, a pilot learns to recognize future workload requirements and can prepare for high workload periods during times of low workload
What is CO positioning?
CO is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas contained in exhaust fumes. When inhaled even in minute quantities over a period of time, it can significantly reduce the ability of the blood to carry oxygen. Consequently, effects of hypoxia occur
Why are pilots encouraged to use checklists?
Checklists are aids to the memory helps to ensure that critical items necessary for the safe operation of aircraft are not overlooked/forgotten. They provide a standardized method for verifying aircraft configuration/a logical sequence for accomplishing tasks inside/outside the cockpit
How can hypoxia be avoided?
Headings factors that reduce tolerance to altitude, enriching the inspired air w/ oxygen from an appropriate oxygen system, maintaining a comfortable, safe cabin pressure altitude. For optimum protection, pilots are encouraged to use supplemental oxygen abv 10,000' during the day and 5,000' at night
What is hyperventilation?
Hyperventilation is an abnormal increase in the volume of air breathed in/out of the lungs. It can occur subconsciously when a stressful situation is encountered in flight. This results in a significant decrease in the carbon dioxide content of the blood. Carbon dioxide is needed to automatically regulate the breathing process
What action should be taken if a pilot or his passenger suffers from motion sickness?
If suffering from airsickness while piloting an aircraft, open up the air vents, loosen the clothing, use supplemental oxygen, and keep the eyes on a point outside the airplane. Avoid unnecessary head movements. Terminate the flight/land as soon as possible
What are some of the elements inside/outside the aircraft that a pilot must consider to maintain situational awareness?
Inside the aircraft - the status of aircraft systems, pilot and passengers Outside the aircraft - awareness of where the aircraft is in relation to terrain, traffic, weather and airspace
Discuss the effects of nitrogen excesses during scuba diving upon a pilot or passenger in flight
It is important to allow the body sufficient time to rid itself of excess nitrogen absorbed during diving. If not decompression sickness due to evolved has can occur during exposure to low altitude/create a serious inflight emergency. Recommended wait times before flight: - Flight altitudes up to 8,000': wait at least 12hrs after diving which has not required a control ascent; wait at least 24hrs after diving which has required controlled ascent - flight altitudes abv 8,000': wait at least 24hrs after any scuba dive
Describe how the 3P model can be used to practical risk management
It offers a simple, practical, and systematic approach Perceive - the hazards for a flight, which are present events, objects or circumstances that could contribute to an undesired future event, given set of circumstances that could contribute to an undesired future event/flight; think through circumstances related to the PAVE risk categories. The fundamental question to ask is "what could hurt me, my passengers, or my aircraft?" Process - the hazards by evaluating their impact on flight safety. Think through the Consequences of each hazard, Alternatives available, Reality of the situation, and External pressures (CARE) that might influence the analysis Perform - by implementing the best course of action. Transfer (can the risk decision be transferred to someone else? Can you consult someone?); Eliminate (is there a way to eliminate the hazard?); Aircraft (do the benefits of accepting risk outweigh the costs?); Mitigate (what can you do to reduce risk?) = TEAM
What is the most important aspects of managing an autopilot/FMS?
Knowing at all times which modes are engaged, which modes are armed to engage and being capable of verifying that armed functions engage at the appropriate time
What symptoms can a pilot expect from hyperventilation?
Light headed-ness, suffocation, drowsiness, tingling in the extremities, and coolness Most natural reaction is to react w. More hyperventilation. Incapacitation can eventually result from uncoordination, disorientation and painful muscle spasms. Finally unconsciousness can occur
How does CO poisoning occur/what symptoms should a pilot be alert for?
Most heaters in light aircraft work by airflow over the manifold. The use of these heaters while exhaust fumes are escaping through manifold cracks/seals is responsible every year for several non fatal and fatal aircraft accidents from CO poisoning. A pilot who detects the odor of exhaust or experiences symptoms of headache, drowsiness or dizziness while using the heater should suspect CO poisoning
What action can be taken to prevent ear block from occurring in flight?
Normally this can be accomplished by swallowing, yawning, tensing muscles in the throat or if these do not work, by the combination of closing the mouth, pinching the nose closed/attempting to blow through the nostrils (Valsalva maneuver). It is also prevented by not flying w/ an upper respiratory infection or nasal allergic condition
Explain how often a pilot should use the 3P model of ADM throughout a flight
Once a pilot has completed the 3P decision process and selected a course of action, the process begins again because of the circumstances brought about by the course of action require analysis. The decision making process is a continuous loop
Explain the use of a "personal minimums" checklist/how can it help a pilot control risk
One of the most important concepts that safe pilots understand is the difference between what is "legal" in terms of the regulations and what is smart or safe in terms of pilot experience and proficiency. One way a pilot can control the risks is to set personal minimums for items in each risk category. These are limits unique to that individual pilot's current ever of experience/proficiency
What is one method you can use to control/manage risk?
One way a pilot can limit exposure to risks is to set person minimums for items in each risk category, again using PAVE. These are limits unique to that individual pilots current level of experience/proficiency: Pilot - experience/recency (takeoffs/landings, hours make/model), physical/mental condition (IMSAFE) Aircraft - fuel reserves VFR day/night, aircraft performance (W&B, density altitude, etc.), aircraft equipment (avians familiarity, charts, survival gear) EnVironment - airport conditions (runway condition/length), weather (ceilings, winds, vis) External pressures - allowance for delays, diversion, cancelation, alternate plans, personal equipment, available for alternate plans (phone numbers, credit cards, medications)
Explain the use of the Five P model to assess risk associated w/ each of the five factors
Plan - weather, route, publications, ATC reroutes/delays, fuel onboard/remaining Plane - mechanical status, automation status, database currency, backup systems Pilot - illness, medication, stress, alcohol, fatigue, eating Passengers - pilots/non pilots, nervous/quiet, experienced or new business or pleasure Programming - autopilot, GPS, MFD/PFD; anticipate likely reroutes/clearances; questions to ask: "What is it doing?" "Why is it doing it?" "Did I do it?"
What is the first step towards neutralizing a hazardous attitude?
Recognition of hazardous thoughts is the first step toward neutralizing them. After recognizing a thought as hazardous, the pilot should label it as hazardous, and then state the corresponding antidote. Antidotes should be memorized for each of the hazardous attitudes so they automatically come to mind when
Define the term "risk management"
Risk management is a decision making process designed to systematically identify hazards, assess the degree of risk, and determine the best course of action. It is a logical process of weighing the potential costs of inks against the possible benefits of allowing those risks to stand uncontrolled
What are examples of the skills necessary for effective SRM?
SRM includes the concepts of aeronautical decisions making (ADM), risk management (RM), task management (TM, automation management (AM) controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) awareness and situational awareness (SA)
Can you operate an aircraft while taking an over-the-counter medication for an on-going condition (allergies, hay fever, etc)?
Self medication or taking medication in any form while you are flying can be extremely hazardous. Even simple home or over the counter remedies such as aspirin, laxatives, tranquilizers and appetite suppressors may seriously impair the judgement and coordination needed while flying. The safest rule is to take no medication while flying, except with the advice of your AME
Define the term "single pilot resource management"
Single pilot resource management (SRM) is the art/science of managing all the resources (both on board the aircraft/from outside sources) available to a single pilot (prior to/during flight) to ensure that the successful outcome of the flight is never in doubt. SRM helps pilots lean to execute methods of gathering information, analyzing it and making decisions
Define the term "situational awareness"
Situational awareness (SA) is the accurate perception/understanding of all the factors/conditions w/in the 5 fundamental risk elements (flight, pilot, aircraft, environment, external pressures) that affect safety before, during, and after the flight
What are several options that a pilot can employ to decrease workload/avoid becoming overloaded?
Stop, think, slow down, prioritize. Tasks such as locating an item on a chart or setting a radio frequency may be delegated to another pilot or passenger; autopilot if available may be used; or ATC may be enlisted to provide assistance
How is the 3P model different from the DECIDE model of ADM?
The 3P process is a continuous loop of the pilots handling of hazards. The DECIDE model/naturalistic decision making focus on particular problems requiring resolution. Therefore, pilots exercise the 3P process continuously, while the DECIDE model/naturalistic decision making result from the 3P process
What practical application provides a pilot w/ an effective method to practice SRM?
The 5 P checklist consists of: 1. Plan 2. Plane 3. Pilot 4. Passengers 5. Programming It is based on the ideas that the pilot has essentially 4 variables that impact his or her environment and that can cause the pilot to make a single critical decision or several less critical decision that where added together can create a critical outcome
What two models are commonly used when practicing aeronautical decision making?
The DECIDE model and the 3P model.
When is the use of the Five P checklist reccomended?
The Five P checklist is best utilized at a variety of different key points. These points include preflight, pre-takeoff, hourly or at the midpoint of the flight, pre-descent, and just prior to the final approach fix. They also should be used anytime an emergency situation arises
How can the use of PAVE checklist during flight planning to help you assess risk?
The PAVE checklist provides pilots w/ a simple way to remember each category to examine for risk during flight planning. The pilot divides the risks of flight into 4 categories: 1. PIC - general health, physical/mental/emotional state, proficiency, currency 2. Aircraft - airworthiness, equipment, performance capability 3. EnVironment - weather hazards, terrain, airports/runways to be used, conditions 4. External pressures - meetings, people waiting at destination, desire to impress someone, etc
In what 3 areas must a pilot be proficient when using advanced avionics or any automated system?
The pilot must know what to expect, how to monitor the system for proper operation, and be prepared to promptly take appropriate action if the system does not perform as expected
Define the term task management
The process by which pilots manage the many, concurrent tasks that must be performed safely/efficiently operate an aircraft
How can a hyperventilating condition be reversed?
The symptoms of hyperventilation subside w/in a few minutes after the rate/depth of breathing are consciously brought back to normal. The buildup of CO in the body can be hastened by controlling breathing in/out of a paper bag hello over the nice/mouth
The DECIDE model of decision making involves which elements?
D - detect a change needing attention E - estimate the need to counter or react to a change C - choose the most desirable outcome fo the flight I - identify actions to successfully control the change D - do something to adapt to the change E - evaluate the effect of the action countering the change
What are two common methods of checklist usage?
Do verify (DV) method - consists of the checklist being accomplished in a variable sequence w/out a preliminary challenge. After all the action ite,s on the checklist ave been completed the checklist is then read again while each item is verified. The DV method allows the pilot/flight crew to use flow patterns from memory to accomplish a series of actions quickly/efficiently Challenge do verify (CDV) method - consists of a pilot/crewmember making a challenge before an action is initiated, taking action, then verifying that the action item has been accomplished. The CDV method is most effective in two pilot crews where one crewmember issues the challenge and the second crewmember takes the action/responds to the first crewmember, verifying that the action was taken
For a pilot who has been taking an over-the-counter (OTC) cold medication, how do the various environmental factors the pilot is exposed to inflight affect the drug's physiological impact on the pilot?
Drugs that cause no apparent side effects on the ground can create serious problems at relatively low altitudes. Even at typical GA altitudes the changes in concentrations of atmospheric gases in the blood can enhance the effects of seemingly innocuous drugs/result in impaired judgement, decision-making and performance
What is one method of prioritizing tasks to avoid an overload situation?
During any situation/especially in an emergency remember the phrase "aviation, navigate, and communicate"
What are several factors that can reduce a pilot's ability to manage workload effectively?
Environmental conditions - temp/humidity extremes, noise, vibration, lack of oxygen Physiological stress - fatigue, lack of physical fitness, sleep loss, missed meals (risk of low blood sugar), illness Psychological stress - social or emotional factors, such as a death in the family, a divorce, a sick child, or demotion at work. This type of stress may also be related to mental workload, such as analyzing a problem, navigating an aircraft, or making decisions
Explain the use of a personal checklist such as "IM SAFE" to determine personal risks
Personal, self-assessment checklist assist pilots in conducting preflight checks on themselves, reviewing their physical/emotional states that could have an effect on their performance. The IM SAFE checklist reminds pilots to consider the following: I - illness: do i have any symptoms? M - medication: have I been taking prescriptions or over the counter drugs? S - stress: am I under psychological pressure from my job? Do I have money, family, health problems? A - alcohol: have I been drinking w/in 8hrs? W/in 4hrs? F - fatigue: am i tired/not adequately rested? E - emotions: am i fully recovered from any extremely upsetting events?
What regulations apply/what common sense should prevail concerning the use of drugs/medications?
Pilot performance can be seriously degraded by both prescribed/over the counter medications as well as by the medical conditions for which they are taken. The regulations prohibit pilots from performing crewmember duties while using medication that affects the faculties in any way contrary to safety. The safest rule is not to fly as a crewmember while taking any medication, unless approved to do so by the FAA
At a minimum, the pilot flying w/ advanced avionics must know how to Magee what 3 primary items?
The course deviation indicator (CDI), the navigation source, and the autopilot
What does the term "automation management" refer to?
The demonstrated ability to control/navigate an aircraft by means of automated system installed in the aircraft
What is the definition of "risk"?
The future impact of a hazard that is not controlled or eliminated
Automation management is a good place to practice the standard fallout technique. What are standard call outs?
Tp assist in maintaining situational awareness, professional flight crews often use standard call outs. For example, the non-flying pilot may call 2,000' and 1,000' prior to reaching an assigned altitude. The fallout may be "two to go" and "one to go". Single pilot operations can also benefit from this practice by adopting standard set call outs that can be used in the different segments of a flight. Examples of standard call outs are: Power Set, Airspeed Alive, Rotate, Positive Rate - Gear Up, Localizer Alive, Glideslope Alive, Nav Source Verified, etc
When flying a technically advanced aircraft (TAA) what are several procedures that help ensure that situational awareness is enhanced, not diminished, by the automation?
Two basic procedures are to always double check the system ad to use verbal call outs. At minimum, ensure the presentation makes sense