Effect of experience on risk-taking behaviour in pilots

Abstract

Risk is an integral part of flying aircraft and so its correct identification is of essential importance in order for it to be mitigated safely. In this respect, Hunter’s Risk Perception- Other test (2002, 2006), in combination with Gosling’s TIPI (2003) were employed to examine the effect of experience and personality on pilots’ risk-taking behaviour. A selfreport questionnaire was devised and posted on two aviation oriented fora, where 167 pilots from varying backgrounds chose to participate. Total flight time of the participants ranged from 14 to 21,000 hours, with a mean of 1471.9 hours. Risk Perception was found to be significantly related to total flight time, level of certification achieved and to a lesser extent, flight time in the past 90 days. Age, flight time in the previous 30 days, main type of flying activity, extraversion and openness to experience were all found not to be related to risk perception. The results indicate a negative relationship between risk perception and experience, while studies of accident data indicated a protective effect of experience, which suggests that the relationship between risk perception and risk taking behaviour is complex and possibly confounded.