Investigating the predictive validity of subjective and objective measures for general aviation pilots’ risk propensity

Abstract

Pilots’ propensity to engage in risk can affect flight safety. Predictors of risk traditionally rely on subjective psychometric scales, with varying predictive validity. The aim of the current study is to investigate the efficacy of both subjective and objective measures (e.g., Electroencephalography – EEG) in predicting general aviation pilots’ risk propensity in a high-risk Go/No-Go flight task. A total of 16 pilots completed a battery of scales, along with a high-risk flight on a computer-based flight simulator while wearing an EEG. The results of a series of one-tailed Mann-Whitney U tests revealed pilots who declined (No-Go) the flight had a narrower EEG theta asymmetry in the Rostral brain region between their right and left-brain hemispheres compared to the accepted (Go) pilots. Differences were also noted between pilot groups on the psychometric scales of Locus of Control, and the Total Score and Disinhibition factors on the Sensation Seeking Scale. Pilots who also declined (No-Go) the flight, had a shorter deliberation time when making this decision. The neurobiological data from the EEG support the use of certain psychometric scales in predicting pilots’ risk propensity. These findings have implications on pilots training and selection.