Lesson 8.5 – Crew Resource Management (CRM) & Single-Pilot Resource Management (SRM)
Crew Resource Management (CRM) began in airline multi-crew operations. The same principles apply to single-pilot flying and are called Single-Pilot Resource Management (SRM). These concepts appear regularly on the Private Pilot knowledge exam.
Reference:
FAA Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK), Chapter 2
FAA Risk Management Handbook
FAA CRM / SRM guidance
CRM/SRM is the effective use of all available resources—human, hardware, and information—to safely complete a flight. Even when you are the only pilot on board, you still manage a set of resources.
Situational Awareness The accurate perception of what is happening now and what is likely to happen next. Loss of situational awareness is a frequent factor in accidents.
Workload Management Prioritizing tasks and avoiding overload, especially during high-workload phases such as takeoff, landing, and unexpected situations.
Communication Clear, assertive communication with ATC, Flight Service, and passengers. Failure to communicate or to speak up is a common human-factors problem.
Decision Making Using structured processes (3P, DECIDE, PAVE, IMSAFE) and making decisions early while options still exist.
Resource Management Actively using checklists, automation, charts, weather information, ATC, Flight Service, and your own knowledge. Failing to use available resources is itself a form of human error.
SRM applies the principles of CRM to single-pilot operations.
The pilot must manage both the airplane and his or her own workload and decision-making.
Automation is a resource, not a substitute for monitoring and thinking.
External pressures (“get-there-itis,” passenger expectations, schedules) are recognized hazards that must be managed.
Passengers can be either a resource or a distraction; the pilot decides how to use them.
What is the primary goal of CRM/SRM? → Effective use of all available resources to improve safety.
What is situational awareness? → Knowing what is happening and what is likely to happen next.
Why is workload management important? → To prevent task overload and maintain situational awareness.
Does CRM apply only to multi-crew aircraft? → No, the principles apply to single-pilot operations (SRM).
CRM/SRM = effective use of all available resources.
Situational awareness, workload management, communication, and structured decision-making are core elements.
These principles apply fully to single-pilot flying.
Loss of situational awareness and failure to use available resources are common accident factors.
Recognizing and managing external pressures is part of good SRM.
Links:
Intro to Aviation & Airplanes
Airfoils, Lift & Angle of Attack
Stalls, Critical Angle of Attack & Spin Awareness
Primary Flight Controls & the Three Axis
Stability, Controllability & Adverse Yaw
Engine Instruments & System Monitoring
Pilot Certification & Privileges
Medical Certificates & BasicMed
Flight Rules (Part 91 Highlights)
Airport Marking, Signs, & Lighting
Traffic Patterns & Airport Operations
Special Use Airspace & Other Airspace Areas
Airport Facility Directory & Chart Reading
The Atmosphere & Atmospheric Pressure
Airmasses, Fronts & Weather Patterns
Thunderstorms, Turbulence, Icing & Other Hazards
Weather Reports, Forecasts & Charts
Common Weak Areas & How to Fix Them
Private Pilot Privileges & Limitations
Lesson 11.2
Currency Requirements
Medical Certification & Basic Med After the Check ride
Continuing Education & Proficiency
Engine Failure & Forced Landings
In-Flight Fires & Electrical Problems
System and Instrument Failures