Tesmarie Busuttil graduated with a Master of Science degree in Strategic Management & Digital Marketing from the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy, University of Malta. She is now working as senior auditor at the National Audit Office.
In writing, Pre-Flight preparation job crafting opportunities: A sense-making study, my aim was to understand the critical yet often overlooked role of pre-flight preparation’s effect on pilot performance and what role does this play on safety.
My research goes beyond the cockpit; investigating the intricate interplay between external factors, pilot characteristics and workplace conditions that shape in-flight decision-making. Employing a qualitative approach, I conducted semi-structured interviews with commercial airline pilots from diverse backgrounds. Through open-ended questions, pilots provided rich narratives about their pre-flight activities and work tasks, revealing recurring themes and patterns. A thematic analysis approach was used to extract key insights from these diverse experiences, offering a holistic understanding of this crucial phase.
My analysis revealed the complex nature of pilot performance, highlighting the significance of operational contexts. Routine operations require different skillsets and adaptability compared to unplanned charter flights. Pilots described thorough planning procedures for scheduled flights, where efficiency and adherence to protocols are paramount. Conversely, unplanned charters demanded a more dynamic approach, requiring pilots to adapt quickly to changing weather conditions, unfamiliar routes and potentially shorter preparation windows. Technology’s double-edged sword effect also emerged as a key theme. Advanced avionics systems undoubtedly boost productivity and improve situational awareness. However, pilots also expressed concerns about technology potentially creating a reliance that could hinder decision-making capabilities. Furthermore, the constant connectivity of these systems blurred the lines between professional and personal lives, potentially impacting pilot well-being and fatigue levels. Investment in technology that streamlines pre-flight tasks without compromising pilot autonomy would not only enhance efficiency but also reduce fatigue.
Furthermore, my research underscores the importance of comprehensive human influences training and cutting-edge technology to enhance pilot well-being and safety. This training equips pilots with the skills to manage stress, fatigue and workload effectively. It champions the well-being and safety of pilots, paving the way for transformative reforms in the aviation industry, and discusses the 12-hour duty period, which is the limit of hours stipulated by law for a duty period and shouldn’t be treated as the norm to operators, who then maximise a pilot’s work schedule to the limit. These changes promise a future of safer and more efficient flight operations for generations to come. Cultivating a culture of awareness and transparency within aviation organisations is critical. Open communication channels allow pilots to voice concerns about workload, operational pressures and fatigue. This promotes a collaborative environment where safety is prioritised.
Finally, this research lays the groundwork for future academic endeavours. Continued exploration of the link between pre-duty activity, pre-flight arrangements, in-flight performance and safety is essential. Through fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing across stakeholders, the aviation industry can embark on a journey of continuous improvement, propelling safety standards and operational efficiency to unprecedented heights. The goal is to create a safer and more efficient travel experience both for pilots and for passengers worldwide.
This article is a summary of the student’s dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of a Master of Science degree in Strategic Management & Digital Marketing. The article is not officially endorsed by the University of Malta. The opinions expressed therein are solely those of the respective alumni and may not reflect those of the University of Malta.