One of the most common causes of aviation accidents is pilot error, meaning that it is the result of mistakes made by the person in the cockpit. All too often, these kinds of accidents might have been prevented if only the pilot had made better decisions or made the right call in an emergency. Here are five ways that pilot error can lead to preventable aviation accidents:


  • Failing to check on-board instruments
      • This type of pilot error arises when pilots fail to check their on-board instruments, which convey crucial information like speed, heading, and how much fuel they have remaining. This is important because these instruments can be the first sign of a potential problem. They can also be used to reorient a pilot if they start to become confused or disoriented during flight.
  • Flying without checking the weather
      • A surprising number of pilots, especially inexperienced pilots, will go up into the air without first checking the weather. They may assume that just because the skies look clear now means that the flight will be safe, or they may assume they can handle any inclement weather that arises. Unfortunately, this type of pilot error can be deadly as pilots unwittingly fly into fog banks and storm clouds.
  • Putting off maintenance
      • Maintenance is costly and time-consuming, and a surprising number of plane owners will put off maintenance as long as possible. While this is most commonly an issue with small plane pilots who own their own personal planes, even major airlines may try to cut corners on maintenance and repairs. However, this type of pilot error can cost more than time and money, as it increases the chances of a mechanical malfunction during flight.
  • Misinterpreting air traffic control
      • Pilots rely on air traffic control to help direct them throughout the course of their flight, in order to ensure their flight goes smoothly and doesn’t conflict with others. However, all it takes is one misheard or misinterpreted instruction for a pilot to put themselves in danger of a crash. The more experienced a pilot is, the less likely they are to commit this type of error, but even experienced pilots can be at risk of this.
  • Failing to respond correctly to a crisis
    • Keeping a cool head in an emergency is an invaluable skill for any profession, but it is especially important for pilots. Knowing what to do, and being able to keep your head enough to do it, can mean the difference between a safe landing and a fatal catastrophe. Unfortunately, many pilots (especially more inexperienced ones) will freak out when things go wrong, increasing the chances of a crash.

 

If you or someone you love has been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you should contact the Tennessee personal injury lawyers at the Keith Williams Law Group. With convenient offices located in Nashville and Lebanon, our lawyers will work with you to create a litigation strategy that protects your legal rights and serves your personal needs. For more information or a free consultation, please contact us at 615-444-2900 or visit our contact page.