Introduction

When assessing airline pilots there is often a focus on mental ability. However, research shows that in most accidents inadequate team behaviour or a breakdown in communication was observed (Maschke, 2004). Moreover, particularly captains need to show professional aviation knowledge and should be strong in the social competencies needed to practice good Threat and Error Management (TEM) and Crew Resource Management (CRM) (IATA, 2012). Thus, assessing competencies along with cognitive ability in pilot selection is essential.

Objectives

We developed a competency model for airline pilots that comprises the competencies essential for TEM and CRM and validated it with performance data from various airlines. The competencies can be assessed using a self-report questionnaire.

Design/Methodology

First a conceptual model was developed based on the insights from literature (e.g., Goeters, 2004; Le, Oh, Robbins, Ilies, Holland, & Westrick, 2011) and practice (e.g., IATA, 2004). Second the model was validated using data from major airlines from the Middle East and Southeast Asia. As predictor we used the personality questionnaire shapes that assesses job-related competencies. As criteria we used performance on the simulator and during flight (base and line checks).

Results

The competency model comprises competencies like stress resistance, interaction with others, or decision making. The empirical studies revealed dimensions like controlled (subscale of stress resistance), agreeable (subscale of interaction with others), and analytical (subscale of decision making) – to name but a few – to be predictors of performance both on the simulator and during flight. The competencies showed incremental validity above cognitive ability tests.

Conclusions

Competencies predict pilot performance and have incremental validity above and beyond cognitive ability. Thus competencies can and should be assessed during pilot selection. The model will need further refinement for different target groups such as captains, first officers, and captains.