Assessing Locus of Control in Pilots: Psychometric Evaluation of a Self-Report Measure

Abstract

The present study systematically assessed the factor structure, internal consistency, and construct validity of the Aviation Safety Locus of Control scale (ASLOC) on 476 European pilots (4.6% female). Independent confirmatory factor analyses showed a strong correlation between the latent factors of Internal and External LOC, justifying proceeding with a one-factor solution (assessing internal LOC after reverse-scoring items). This model achieved adequate fit with excellent internal consistency, after refining with structural equation modeling. Furthermore, flight hours significantly predicted Internal LOC after controlling for age, suggesting that pilots’ work experience can enhance internal attributions of control. This has implications for safety-related behaviors and protection against accidents.