Learning from Mistakes: A Thematic Analysis of Flight 401`s Situational Awareness Lapses

Authors : Ezgi Yıldız

Pages : 10-23

Doi:10.15659/tjss.2025.001

View : 27 | Download : 19

Publication Date : 2025-01-31

Article Type : Review Paper

Abstract :Situational awareness stands as a cornerstone in aviation, holding paramount significance for safety, operational efficiency, and crew training. The dynamic aviation environment necessitates perpetual elevation of the crew\\\'s situational awareness through comprehensive training programs. Effective communication within the crew fortifies this foundation, creating an environment where situational awareness thrives. This trait is not merely desirable but a critical component in averting aviation accidents. The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 accident stands as a poignant case study in aviation safety history, offering crucial insights into situational awareness lapses. This analysis employs a thematic approach to unravel the intricate circumstances that led to the tragedy, focusing on key factors such as aircraft descent, cockpit instrument functionality, pilots\\\' distraction, air traffic control (ATC) involvement, cockpit warning system operation, autopilot disengagement, and the subsequent emphasis on Crew Resource Management (CRM) and cockpit communication. Practical implications stress the importance of comprehensive training, effective communication, technological understanding, and addressing human factors in aviation safety. The enduring legacy of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 accident underscores the recognition of Crew Resource Management (CRM) as crucial, emphasizing enhanced communication, task delegation, and teamwork. Future research directions include exploring aviation technology, investigating psychological and physiological factors affecting situational awareness, scrutinizing Air Traffic Control (ATC) dynamics, addressing challenges tied to technological reliance, analyzing CRM practices, studying human-machine interfaces, evaluating training program effectiveness through simulation studies, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration, conducting longitudinal studies, and exploring global comparative studies. These research paths aim to enhance our understanding of situational awareness and contribute to ongoing improvements in aviation safety practices.
Keywords : Havacılıkta Durumsal Farkındalık, Havacılık Kaza Analizi, ekip kaynak yönetimi, havacılıkta emniyet, durum farkındalığı