Lessons from the implementation of Threat and Error Management: A case study of the Australian general aviation

Threat and Error Management (TEM) is one of recent safety initiatives to further improve the overall aviation safety level. In response to the recommendations of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for TEM to be introduced to all pilot training syllabi, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in Australia mandated TEM as an additional assessment item for various levels of flight tests and ground examinations in 2009. The current study adopted a two-pronged approach: A case study to highlight the importance of TEM training, followed by gaining an in-depth appreciation as to how TEM was implemented and its effects of the use of TEM training. A semi-structured interview of five highly experienced general aviation Flight Examiners (FE) was conducted, and thematic analysis was performed for the interview data from which four main themes emerged: 1) Impracticality; 2) Lack of guidance and support; 3) TEM implementation; and 4) TEM in practice. All participants shared the same view that TEM was not implemented well. It is expected that the findings from this study add to the body of knowledge to better inform and provide guidance and reference for National Aviation Authorities (NAA) to develop an implementation plan when considering the implementation of TEM training in their regulatory framework. Our study highlights a notable disconnect in CASA’s operational workforce’s grasp of TEM, impacting trust in the general aviation sector in its significance and application. It should be also noted that since our study, to address this and foster innovation in safety projects, CASA has initiated comprehensive strategies such as workforce planning and actively engaging in Technical Working Groups (TWGs) to harness community expertise for safety improvements. Nevertheless, the findings have the potential to provide information regarding pilot attitudes to future safety initiatives in other rapidly growing sectors such as Recreational Aviation (RA) and Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS).