Integrating training and performance management of civil aviation inspectors: A pilot study of the mediating role of competency-based training

Competency-based training (CBT) is gaining popularity as an approach towards creating a highly skilled workforce while reducing the skill gaps faced by industry. Integrated within an organisation's management systems, it can lead to benefits such as increased productivity and strengthened employee engagement. While CBT of aviation industry personnel is well-researched, CBT of civil aviation inspectors is surprisingly under-researched. To better understand the role that CBT plays as a link between organisational training and performance management, a pilot study was carried out involving eleven European Civil Aviation Authorities (CAAs) to establish the feasibility of conducting a larger-scale study. This research examines CBT elements which were then benchmarked against the Framework for integrating training and performance management systems of CAAs through CBT. The results indicate that the elements of CBT applied by CAAs in Europe are generally consistent; however, not all the recommended elements are included and applied harmoniously, leading to inconsistencies in implementing the approach. Implications of the study for training and performance management, as well as for future research, are identified.