Integration of managerial training systems into the development path of aircraft commanders as a factor enhancing flight safety

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19911884

Keywords:

aviation safety, CRM, leadership, human factors, competency development, airline captain training, management systems

Abstract

The role of an aircraft commander has evolved far beyond technical piloting proficiency and increasingly encompasses advanced leadership, managerial, and interpersonal competencies. This paper examines the integration of managerial training systems into the development pathway of airline captains as a key factor in enhancing flight safety. The study employs a multi-method approach, including regulatory analysis, aviation accident case studies, survey research among airline captains, and comparative analysis of corporate management development systems. The findings confirm that human factors-particularly deficiencies in communication, decision-making, and team management-remain the dominant contributors to aviation incidents, accounting for up to 70% of accidents. While Crew Resource Management (CRM) training addresses selected non-technical skills, it is insufficient as a standalone solution due to its standardized and procedural nature. The paper proposes a hybrid training model integrating CRM with managerial development practices such as mentoring, coaching, talent management, and competency-based situational training. Drawing on human resource management theory and experiential learning models, the study demonstrates that such integration enables continuous, personalized development of leadership competencies. This approach enhances commanders’ ability to manage complex operational environments, adapt leadership styles, and mitigate human-factor-related risks. The results suggest that embedding managerial training systems into pilot development significantly improves leadership effectiveness, operational decision-making, and overall aviation safety.

Author Biographies

  • Magdalena Ścigała , Faculty of Management and Logistics-University of Technology and Commerce, Warsaw, Poland

    Magdalena Ścigała Ph.D.-Faculty of Management and Logistics-University of Technology and Commerce, Warsaw, Poland, e-mail: [email protected] , ORCID: 0000-0003-4857-8648, education: doctorate in management and quality sciences from the University of Warsaw, master's degree in psychology. Professional activities: serves as an assistant professor at the H. Chodkowska University of Technology and Economics in Warsaw. Areas of interest: research focuses on business psychology, computer modeling in management and contemporary issues of power. Social activities: she is involved in initiatives supporting women in business, collaborating with organizations such as the Women's Economic Forum.

  • Tomasz Balcerzak, Faculty of Management and Logistics-University of Technology and Commerce, Warsaw

    Tomasz Balcerzak, PhD. Eng.: Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Management and Logistics-University of Technology and Commerce, Warsaw, Poland, e-mail: [email protected] , ORCID: 0000-0002-3845-998X, CEO of Wademekum LTD. and Aerospace Technology LTD., Expert European Commission Research Executive Agency (REA), Expert of European Global Navigation Satellite Systems Agency. Extensive experience in the aviation industry in managing projects of the operating companies. Founder and co-founder of several companies. Author and coauthor over 60 publications. Specializes in aviation and space.

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Published

2026-06-30

How to Cite

Integration of managerial training systems into the development path of aircraft commanders as a factor enhancing flight safety. (2026). Scientific Journal of Safety and Logistics, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19911884

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