Introduction

In the aviation industry, safety is paramount. One critical component that ensures this safety is Threat and Error Management (TEM). This concept is vital for pilots, air traffic controllers, and airline operations, helping to mitigate risks and enhance operational efficiency. In this post, we will explore the fundamentals of TEM, its importance, and best practices for implementation.

What is Threat and Error Management (TEM)?

Threat and Error Management (TEM) is a framework used in aviation to identify, manage, and mitigate threats and errors during flight operations. The primary goal of TEM is to enhance safety by recognizing potential hazards before they escalate into critical situations. This proactive approach involves three main components: threats, errors, and undesired aircraft states.

Identifying Threats

Threats are external factors that can affect flight operations, such as adverse weather conditions, technical malfunctions, or air traffic control issues. Identifying these threats early allows pilots to take preemptive actions to manage them effectively. For example, pilots might adjust their flight path to avoid severe weather or prepare for potential technical issues with backup systems.

Types of Threats

- Anticipated Threats: Known to the flight crew and can be prepared for in advance.
- Unexpected Threats: Occur without warning and require immediate response using training and experience.
- Latent Threats: Not immediately obvious and require thorough safety analysis to uncover.

According to the LOSA Archive data, the typical flight encounters an average of 4.2 threats per flight. About 30% of these threats occur during the pre-departure/taxi-out phase, and approximately 40% occur during the descent/approach/landing phase. The most frequent threats include adverse weather, ATC issues, and aircraft malfunctions.

Managing Errors

Errors are actions or inactions by the flight crew that can lead to unsafe situations. These can be mistakes in navigation, communication, or procedural execution. By understanding common errors, pilots can develop strategies to avoid them. This includes thorough pre-flight briefings, checklists, and continuous training to ensure adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Types of Errors

- Spontaneous Errors: Occur without a direct link to a specific threat.
- Linked Errors: Result from mismanaged threats.
- Error Chains: Series of errors that compound the situation.

From the LOSA Archive, approximately 80% of flights have one or more errors, with the descent/approach/landing phase being the most error-prone. Procedural errors are the most common, followed by aircraft handling errors and communication errors. About 25% of errors are mismanaged, leading to additional errors or undesired aircraft states.

Mitigating Undesired Aircraft States

Undesired aircraft states occur when the aircraft is in a condition that increases risk, such as being off-course, at the wrong altitude, or experiencing system malfunctions. Effective TEM involves strategies to recover from these states promptly. This includes prompt corrective actions and following emergency procedures to return the aircraft to a safe operating condition.

Best Practices for Effective TEM

1. Continuous Training: Regular training sessions on TEM principles help pilots stay updated on the latest safety protocols and best practices.
2. Use of Checklists: Comprehensive checklists ensure that all necessary steps are followed during flight operations, minimizing the risk of errors.
3. Simulation Exercises: Realistic flight simulations allow pilots to practice handling threats and errors in a controlled environment, improving their response in actual scenarios.
4. Crew Resource Management (CRM):  Effective communication and teamwork among the flight crew are essential for successful TEM. CRM training focuses on these aspects to enhance coordination and problem-solving skills.

TEM Tools and Techniques

TEM tools are categorized into "hard" safeguards (e.g., automated systems, instrument displays) and "soft" safeguards (e.g., regulations, SOPs, checklists). Effective TEM performance relies on a combination of these tools and techniques, emphasizing anticipation, recognition, and recovery.

Conclusion

Threat and Error Management is a fundamental aspect of aviation safety, providing a structured approach to identifying, managing, and mitigating risks. By implementing TEM, airlines can ensure safer flights and more efficient operations. Continuous training, adherence to SOPs, and effective communication are key to mastering TEM and enhancing overall flight safety.