How Lack of Training Threatens Aviation Safety

aviation training cbta ebt active learning knowledge skills competence

How Lack of Training Threatens Aviation Safety

The latest buzzwords within aviation training are CBTA and EBT. Even though competencies and safety are on everyone’s agenda, many organisations opt for online training courses and quick tick marks to comply with their annual training requirements. The problem, however, is that poor training significantly threatens the safety of our industry.

Pilots, cabin crew members, and maintenance staff undergo recurrent training to ensure that they remain professional, competent, and efficient. In other words, training is a prerequisite to perform their everyday tasks.

This article examines what happens when organisations fail to prioritise training. More specifically, how lack of training significantly threatens the safety of our beloved industry.

Any Training Equals Good Training?

Every aviation professional knows the concept of human factors. Essentially, human factors refer to everything which affects the performance, safety, and effectiveness in the operational environment.

From a human factors’ perspective, it seems quite unacceptable to deprioritize or even neglect training.

But do all kinds of training qualify as ‘good’ training? Not if you ask us...

From our perspective, effective training should be interactive, comprehensive, and scenario-based as this approach inspires the participants to actively engage in their own learning.

Active training enhances knowledge and skills which are necessary to ensure safe and efficient operations. Good training programmes incorporate discussions, practical experiences, simulations, and assessments which address the diverse and emerging challenges our industry faces. Daily.

The Consequences Are Real

To summarise, the lack of training or inadequate training poses a significant threat to the safety of our industry. Why? Because this increases the risk of human error and subsequent accidents, undermines best practice, and compromises the overall safety and efficiency of the operations.

Furthermore, inadequate training has a greater risk of resulting in non-compliance with rules and regulations. If the public becomes aware of the fact that an organisation fails to adhere to these standards, their reputation and trust could take serious hits.

We do not mean to paint a doomsday scenario reflecting the consequences of poor training. However, we do believe that every aviation organisation should carefully consider the consequences of their chosen approach to training.

What do you believe the consequences of poor training are?