The Evolution of Crew Resource Management Training in Commercial Aviation

TLDR

Validation of CRM impact and its limitations, such as lack of cross‑cultural generality, are discussed. The study describes changes in CRM training and presents an overarching error‑management framework to increase acceptance of CRM concepts. The study outlines the shift of CRM training from cockpit to crew resource management and defines an error‑management approach that teaches behavioral strategies to avoid, trap, and mitigate errors.

Abstract

In this study, we describe changes in the nature of Crew Resource Management (CRM) training in commercial aviation, including its shift from cockpit to crew resource management. Validation of the impact of CRM is discussed. Limitations of CRM, including lack of cross-cultural generality are considered. An overarching framework that stresses error management to increase acceptance of CRM concepts is presented. The error management approach defines behavioral strategies taught in CRM as error countermeasures that are employed to avoid error, to trap errors committed, and to mitigate the consequences of error.