Deriving Real World Solutions: The Art and Science of Aviation Psychology

Aviation psychology is the application of psychology to the hazardous and stressful occupations encompassed by aviation. It deals with problems faced by the personnel working in aviation environment; tries to find out causes for such problems and suggest remedial measures where ever possible. Psychological health has to be affirmed in relation to specific occupational requirements. There are two requirements; the occupational and the clinical. The occupational requirements involve three aspects: aeronautical adaptability, the high stress occupation offlying and psychological selection. Adaptability for military aviation is a complex issue, which involves motivation to fly, ability to fly, and psychological/emotional suitability. The clinical requirements center around the aeromedical evaluation of pilots w'hich are carried out at regular intervals to assess medical fitness for flying. Aviation mental health requires more than just clinical psychological normality to become a safe and effective aircrew because successful mission completion together with flight safety is of paramount concern. Issues related to testing and therapy in the aviation environment are discussed.