Examining The Impact of General Competency Belief on Crisis Management: The Mediating Roles of Perceived Insider Status in The Airline Industry

This study explores the relationship between airline employees' general competency beliefs and their crisis management capabilities, emphasizing the mediating role of perceived insider status. The dynamic nature of the aviation industry, characterized by high uncertainty and frequent crises, necessitates a competent and resilient workforce. General competency belief refers to individuals' confidence in their ability to effectively handle various life challenges, while perceived insider status reflects their sense of belonging and inclusion within the organization. Data were collected from 324 employees across 14 licensed Turkish airline companies using validated scales. Structural equation modeling revealed that general competency beliefs notably influence both crisis management and perceived insider status. Moreover, perceived insider status affects crisis management and serves as a complementary mediator. These findings underscore the importance of enhancing employee competencies and fostering a strong sense of organizational belonging to improve crisis preparedness and responsiveness. This research uniquely integrates three key concepts—competency belief, insider status, and crisis management—into a comprehensive model within the aviation sector. The study contributes to the literature by filling a gap in empirical research and offering practical insights for human resources and crisis preparedness strategies in high-risk service industries.