An Input–Process–Output Model of Pilot Core Competencies

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the flight-related core competencies for professional airline pilots and to structuralize them as components in a team performance framework. To achieve this, the core competency scores from a total of 2,560 OPC (Operator Proficiency Check) missions were analyzed. A principal component analysis (PCA) of pilots’ performance scores across the different competencies was conducted. Four principal components were extracted and a path analysis model was constructed on the basis of these factors. The path analysis utilizing the core competencies extracted adopted an input–process–output’ (IPO) model of team performance related directly to the activities on the flight deck. The results of the PCA and the path analysis strongly supported the proposed IPO model.