Sponsored by FlightSafety International

In the last 10 years, what condition has produced the greatest number of aviation fatalities?

A. Controlled flight into terrain (CFIT)

B. In-flight loss of control

C. Air piracy/hijacking

D. Midair collision

Correct answer: B

In-flight loss of control has overtaken CFIT by nearly double as the cause of most aviation fatalities. Whether the cause is an over-reliance on cockpit automation, a degradation of hand-flying skills, a de-emphasis on the academic aeronautical sciences or a combination thereof, in-flight loss of control is a serious problem. There is no substitute for mastery and proficiency of both automated cockpits and ability to hand fly the aircraft. We must develop and maintain exceptional knowledge of the aeronautical sciences under which we operate. Even when mastered, these skills are perishable and must be continually reinforced through training.