When we have done this do we have a list of CRM success stories or a list of
highly effective crew behaviours? In recent memories all well-handled
incidents and accidents probably involve CRM trained crews. So also for the
less well-handled situations. To really access the impact of CRM, both sides
of the coin should be examined.
If we went back pre-CRM, there are many cases of heroic efforts by crews that
saved the day. Their success can be attributed to the superior behaviours of
the crews not CRM. Obviously the intent of CRM is to instil these highly
effective behaviours in a higher percentage of aircrew than has been the case
historically. When we can show that the median behaviour has shifted we can
claim succes for CRM, not before.
Cheers
Keith Hendy
Systems Modelling Group
DCIEM, Toronto, ON
CANADA
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> Dear CRMers,
> I'm putting together a list of CRM "success stories". The recent
> posting on UAL 232 is obviously an exellent example.
> Please share your experiences with any saves, improvements,
> accident/incident reduction, etc.
> Thanks in advance,
> Spence Byrum
> CTI, Inc.
Dear Byrum :
I think gathering CRM success stories is a very good idea. I would suggest
you(we) should not only listing up experiences but also identify, from the
human factors point of view, what was the vital point at which CRM training
worked effectively. An in-depth analysis of such kind could help us in
developing truly effective and realistic CRM training in the future, which is
not only for flight crew but for all other operational personnel including
mechanics, cabin crew, dispachers, etc.
Taking a case with UA232 for example, what was the vital point ? Positive
attitude of an alternate crew of visiting the cockpit ? Accepting the visit of
an alternate crew by a PIC ? Well coordinated efforts by regular and alternate
flight crew in case of emergency ? I do not necessarily thik these were vital
points. The very thing which spelled the difference between life and death of
some passengers and crew in that case was an idea of using No.1 and No.2
engine
thrust levers for the purpose other than specified in the Manual. It cannot be
denied that good coordination helped this work, however, it would be natural
for most human beings to better coordinate with each other especially in case
of emergency even if they do not experience CRM training. What are the real
lessons learned from UA232 case ?
As you know, JAL has a sad memory of B747SR accident on Apr.12(Tommorow) in
1985 which was very similar to UA232.
Hidetake Sakuma, Corporate Safety JAL