Single-Pilot Resource Management
So
what is single-pilot resource management? The FAA Risk Management Handbook
notes that SRM is defined as the art of managing all the resources (both
onboard the aircraft and from outside sources) available to a pilot prior to
and during flight to ensure a successful flight. It is about how to gather
information, analyze it, and make decisions. It requires the pilot to
competently perform a number of mental tasks in addition to the physical task
of basic aircraft control. These
include
situational
awareness,
t
ask management,
a
utomation management,
r
isk management,
a
eronautical decision-making, and
CFIT (controlled-flight-into-terrain) awareness. That is no small challenge,
especially for GA pilots whose aeronautical experience may be limited.
The
incorporation of SRM into GA pilot training curricula is an important step
forward in aviation safety. A structured
approach to SRM helps pilots learn to gather information, analyze it, and make
decisions on the conduct of the flight.
When
it comes to gathering information, SRM training emphasizes that even though
the flight is operated by an individual pilot and not an onboard crew, the
pilot has a number of inside and outside resources available to assist with the
flight. A key skill is how to identify and effectively use these resources.
For
example, internal resources might include passengers, even if they have no
flying experience. The pilot can ask them to assist by reading checklist items
and watching for traffic. With a little instruction, passengers can also help
listen for radio calls and assist with switching radio frequencies. It could
also be helpful to teach frequent passengers some basic programming skills for
moving map and multifunction displays, if the aircraft is so equipped. Internal
resources might also include the pilot’s use of verbal briefings. Many solo
pilots read the checklist out loud, and make it a point to touch the
appropriate switch or control.
Your
onboard equipment, which can include both panel-mounted and hand-held devices,
constitutes another important internal resource. Today’s technology offers an
incredible range of information to assist with overall situational awareness,
navigation, weather information, and much more. The key to benefiting from this
resource is to know your devices: long before you leave the ground, know what
information is available and make sure you know how to access it without unduly
diverting your attention from essential aircraft control duties.
Reference:
•
FAA’s Risk Management Handbook (FAA-H-8083-2), chapter 6
www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/risk_management_handbook/
•
Advisory Circular 120-51E, Crew Resource Management Training
http://go.usa.gov/ZECw
•
“Whither and Whether of Flying in Weather” (FAA Safety Briefing –
July/August 2010)
www.faa.gov/news/safety_briefing/2010/media/julaug2010.pdf
