Investigation of Gender Differences in Air Cadet Glider Accidents: Social-psychological and other Human Factors

摘要

Directorate of Flight Safety (DFS) data between 1997 and 2007 suggest that a disproportionate number of female pilots are involved in Canadian air cadet glider accidents. These data contradict findings from the experienced adult female aircrew population in Canada (among Cadets) as well as general aviation accident records that typically find no gender differences in accident rates (McFadden, 1996). Research also suggests a mixed picture regarding gender differences in aviation safety among flight students; for example, compared to male flight students, female flight students tend to learn procedures correctly and be more consistent in using them, yet may also be slower to gain confidence (Sitler, 2004). Research also suggests that commercial aviation continues to be dominated by 'masculine' cultural values and practices, possibly leading to feelings of pressure among females to perform, as well as prejudicial attitudes towards female aviators (Davey, 2004; Vermeulen & Mitchell, 2007). This study explored social-psychological and other human factors that may be involved in gender differences in Canadian air cadet glider accidents. Analyses of 19 accident reports (1997-2007) indicated that accidents involving only females were attributable to factors such as decision error, whereas accidents involving only males were attributable to over- confidence and a culture of noncompliance. In nearly 70% of the accidents a female was the pilot in command (PIC). Survey findings from a sample of male and female air cadets and glider instructors (N=472) indicated some gender differences in attitudes towards female pilots, ergonomic factors, and prior experiences relevant to gliding.