Pilot training: What can surgeons learn from it?

FAA, USA Federal Aviation Authority; EASA, European Aviation Safety Agency Abstract Objective: To provide healthcare professionals with an insight into training in aviation and its possible transfer into surgery. Methods: From research online and into company archives, relevant publications and information were identified. Results: Current airline pilot training consists of two categories, basic training and type-rating. Training methods comprise classroom instruction, computer-based training and practical training, in either the aircraft or a flight-training device, which ranges from a fixed-base flight-training device to a full flight simulator. Pilot training not only includes technical and procedural instruction, but also training in non-technical skills like crisis management, decision-making, leadership and communication. Training syllabuses, training devices and instructors are internationally standardized and these standards are legally binding. Re-qualification and recurrent training are mandatory at all stages of a pilot’s and instructor’s career. Conclusion: Surgeons and pilots have much in common, i.e., they work in a ‘realtime’ three-dimensional environment under high physiological and psychological stress, operating expensive equipment, and the ultimate cost for error is measured in human lives. However, their training differs considerably. Transferring these well-tried aviation methods into healthcare will make surgical training more efficient, more effective and ultimately safer. a 2013 Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Arab Association of Urology.