Facilitating LOFT Debriefings: Instructor Techniques and Crew Participation

This study analyzes techniques instructor pilots (IPs) use to facilitate crew analysis and evaluation of line-oriented flight training performance. We analyzed IP facilitation and crew participation for 36 debriefing sessions conducted at 5 U.S. airlines. For this analysis we developed a rating instrument termed the Debriefing Assessment Battery and demonstrated that it can be used reliably. IP facilitation skill varied dramatically, suggesting a need for concrete hands-on training in facilitation techniques. All measures of crew participation correlated significantly with IP effectiveness in facilitation. Crews responded to IP guidance but did not lead their own debriefings. We suggest ways to improve debriefing effectiveness.