What Is Aviation Psychology?

There are many specialized areas of psychology designed to help specific groups. Aviation psychology is an area that has been practiced since since World War II. Psychologists who work in aviation are trained to help pilots and flight crews to make sure they are as emotionally and mentally healthy as possible. Their main objective is to make air flight safe.

Significance

Aviation psychology is the study of pilot and flight crew behavior with the objective of maintaining flight safety. Aviation psychologists must be knowledgeable in both psychology and aviation.

History

Aviation psychology was founded in the early 1940s during World War II to ensure the safety and performance of fighter planes. There is a higher demand for aviation psychology during wartime.

Phobias

Aviation psychologists talk to pilots and flight crew members if they develop a fear of flying and help them overcome it. They can also give pilots and crew members advice on getting over airsickness.

Anxiety

Aviation psychologists help train prospective pilots. They teach pilots techniques on how to handle anxiety to ensure they can fly safely under pressure.

Stress

The ability to deal with stress is imperative in flight safety. Aviation psychologists help all crew members, from pilot to air traffic controllers, learn to deal with stress so they don't "burn out" and suffer poor performances.

Accident Counseling

After an accident, aviation psychologists counsel pilots and flight crew members to ensure they properly recover before going back to work.

Management

Aviation psychology also focuses on researching to maintain the quickest and most efficient way to relay information to the pilot in the cockpit. This can improve flight safety by making sure pilots learn of weather conditions or equipment malfunction.

Resources

• Careers in Aviation Psychology