Aeronautical Decision Making, often called ADM, is one of the most important skills a student pilot develops during flight training. Learning to fly is not only about controlling the aircraft or memorizing procedures. It also requires the ability to evaluate situations, manage risk, and make sound decisions in an environment that is constantly changing. Strong ADM skills help student pilots build safe habits that will serve them throughout their flying careers.
This article, authored by retired Charles Palmer, a current Certificated Flight Instructor / Multi-Engine Flight Instructor (CFI/I/MEI) and retired U.S. Marine highlights the basics.
(Reference: FAA "The Art of Aeronautical Decision-Making")
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The Federal Aviation Administration defines Aeronautical Decision Making as a systematic approach to the mental process pilots use to consistently determine the best course of action in response to a given set of circumstances. This concept is introduced early in training because decision making errors and human factors continue to be leading causes of general aviation accidents. By learning ADM principles from the beginning, student pilots are better prepared to recognize hazards and respond appropriately.
During flight training, students are exposed to many new challenges. Weather may not be as forecast, aircraft systems may behave differently than expected, or workload may increase during busy phases of flight. ADM teaches students to pause, assess the situation, and make deliberate choices rather than reacting impulsively. This structured approach improves situational awareness and helps prevent small issues from becoming serious problems.
One commonly taught decision making framework is the DECIDE model. This process begins when a pilot (D)etects a change that requires attention. The pilot then (E)stimates the impact of that change on flight safety and (C)hooses a desirable course of action. Next, the pilot identifies the steps necessary to carry out that decision, (I)mplements the chosen action, and continuously (E)valuates the outcome. For student pilots, practicing this model during lessons helps turn good decision making into a habit rather than a reaction reserved only for emergencies.
ADM is closely tied to risk management. Student pilots are encouraged to evaluate risks related to the pilot, aircraft, environment, and external pressures before every flight. Tools such as Flight Risk Assessment Checklists help students make informed go or no-go decisions and reinforce personal minimums. These practices promote consistency and reduce the influence of external pressure, such as the desire to complete a lesson despite unfavorable conditions.
Another key benefit of ADM training is learning to recognize hazardous attitudes. Overconfidence, impulsivity, and pressure to please others can negatively affect judgment. Understanding these tendencies allows student pilots to identify them early and apply corrective strategies before safety is compromised.
Aeronautical Decision Making is a foundational element of safe pilot training. It equips student pilots with a repeatable process for managing risk, evaluating changing conditions, and making thoughtful decisions. By developing strong ADM skills early, students build confidence, improve safety, and lay the groundwork for responsible aviation throughout their careers.
Sources
Federal Aviation Administration, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, Chapter 2
Federal Aviation Administration, Advisory Circular 60-22, Aeronautical Decision Making
FAA Safety Briefing, Aeronautical Decision Making publications