RMH 6-1

Risk Management Handbook (FAA-H-8083-2A)Introduction 12192 Pilots use risk management as described in earlier chapters to analyze the likelihood and potential severity of an incident or accident based on identified hazards. The process takes time, thought, and collection of information pertinent to the flight. However, once a planned operation begins, a pilot may encounter unforeseen hazards or threats. In addition, a pilot may respond inappropriately to a given condition, thus making an error. This chapter provides strategies pilots may use once flight begins. Threats 12196 Threats have the following characteristics: 12197 • Threats occur outside the influence of the flight crew; they are not controlled by the pilot. 12198 • Threats increase the operational complexity of a flight. 18359 • Threats may appear suddenly, and may limit the time available for analysis. 12199 • A threat requires effective management to contain risk within acceptable levels. 12200 Some common threats include: 18360 • Malfunction of aircraft systems, engines, flight controls, or automation. 18362 • Various unforecast weather hazards. 18363 • Collision hazards, including wildlife on airports and birds in the air. 18365 • Unexpected sudden reductions in visibility. 18366 • Closures of facilities, runways, or taxiways while en route. 18367 • Unreported poor braking action or surface contamination. 18368 • Malfunction of a radio navigation aid or service after takeoff. 18369 • Unexpected ATC clearances, restrictions, or reroutes that may significantly increase workload. 18372 • Controller errors, radio congestion, or communication failure. 18375 • Cabin events. 18377 • Undetected improper refueling or fuel contamination. What is an Error? 12194 Errors are deviations from intended or expected actions and result in a reduction in safety margins. They include both unintentional and intentional acts. They do not require the presence of a threat and can occur spontaneously. Errors may cause confusion and increase workload. Causes of Errors 12203 Errors may result from insufficient training and experience, inadequate flight planning or preparation, external pressures, and physiological and psychological effects. Insufficient Training & Experience 18389 A pilot who lacks training or experience regarding a given set of conditions may not be in a position to respond appropriately to a related sequence of events and the potential for an inappropriate decision or error increases. Organizations often provide training and supervised operating experience for this reason. General aviation pilots who are enthusiastic about meeting new challenges Chapter 6: Threat and Error Management