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Analysis of General Aviation Crashes in Australia Using the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System

Michael G. Lenné, Karen Ashby, Michael Fitzharris

International Journal of Aviation Psychology · 2008 · 64 citations · 13 references

TL;DR

General aviation accidents account for 70–90 % of all aviation accidents, with human error implicated in 85 % of these crashes. The study aimed to analyze 169 Australian general aviation crashes using HFACS to elucidate error roles and to reconfigure insurer crash assessments to support systems‑based investigations. The authors applied the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System to 169 crashes to investigate error contributions. Aircrew were more likely to commit skill‑based and decision errors when personal readiness, physical and mental limitations, or adverse mental states were present, and violations correlated with crew resource management failures.

Abstract

General aviation accidents represent 70% to 90% of all aviation accidents. Human error is implicated as a contributory factor in 85% of these crashes. General aviation crashes (N = 169) were analyzed using the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) to elucidate the role of error in Australian crashes. Aircrew were more likely to commit skill-based and decision errors in the presence of substandard personal readiness, physical and mental limitations, and adverse mental states. Violations were associated with the presence of crew resource management failures. Reconfiguring the assessment of crashes by aviation insurers will further support analyses consistent with the systems approaches to accident investigation and comparison with other accident data sources.