What Do Pilots Know That Other People Don't?

Having spent a significant part of my adult life piloting military helicopters, I understand that the qualities of a great pilot go beyond mere intelligence, knowledge, and smooth flying. While these aspects are critical, the most essential trait is often overlooked: sound judgment. Despite all the advancements in technology and training, a pilot's decision-making skills in critical situations can be the difference between life and death.

Understanding the Elements Beyond Air Traffic Control

Most people believe that a respected pilot must be exceptionally intelligent, have a wealth of knowledge, and exhibit superior control. However, there is an additional element that is paramount: the ability to make sound decisions. An abundance of theoretical knowledge and smooth operations are useless if the pilot makes decisions that endanger people and the aircraft. In my experience, sound judgment is what truly distinguishes a good pilot from an exceptional one.

The Respect for Mother Nature

Like mariners must respect the might of the ocean, aviators must respect the power and unforgiving nature of Mother Nature's weather. Modern weather forecasting tools and advanced weather radar are indeed valuable, but they are just tools. Taking unnecessary risks in poor weather conditions can be extremely dangerous. The dangers of making hasty decisions based on intuition rather than practical experience can be devastating.

Lifelong Learning

Many pilots achieve their licenses, some certificates, and gain a few thousand hours of experience, feeling confident that they have mastered the craft and need not learn more. This belief is fundamentally incorrect. Good pilots never stop pursuing knowledge and never stop studying. They constantly seek out new information from peers across different fields, disciplines, and even other countries to expand their horizons. It is through continuous learning that pilots prepare themselves for the unexpected challenges they may face in the sky.

The Importance of Aircraft Knowledge

The best pilots in the industry not only know their regulations and emergency procedures but also delve deeply into the specifics of their aircraft. They work closely with mechanics to understand the inner workings of the aircraft and study factory maintenance manuals and service advisories. Taking the time to familiarize themselves with their aircraft on a daily basis can be crucial during troubleshooting and applying emergency procedures. This knowledge can potentially save lives and turn critical situations into safer ones.

Show Appreciation to the Mechanics

A key point that cannot be overlooked is the crucial role of mechanics and aircraft inspectors. Respecting and appreciating their work goes a long way. Pilots should show gratitude by treating them kindly, taking them to lunch occasionally, and providing cold drinks on hot days. The bond between pilots and mechanics is vital; prima donna pilots who merely fill out logs and leave the aircraft to the mechanics are looked down upon by the aviation community.

Conclusion

To sum up, the best pilots possess a combination of sound judgment, deep respect for weather conditions, a commitment to continuous learning, and a thorough understanding of their aircraft. By embracing these qualities, pilots can fly not only smoothly but also safely, ensuring the well-being of everyone who trusts them with their lives. So, fly safe, and remember, the best pilots are always the ones who respect the profession and continuously strive to improve.