February 2024: Crisis Management & Pre-Flight Duties
Capt. Sully Sullenberger
Keynote Speaker | Safety Expert | Author | Pilot | Former U.S. Ambassador to the International Civil Aviation Organization
Welcome Aboard
Welcome to the latest edition of "My View From The Left Seat." In this monthly journey, I aim to offer you a pilot's view of the ever-evolving world of aviation, an analysis of critical trending topics, and insights on leadership & team management.
In this newsletter, I want to take a look at crisis management and pre-flight duties. We’ll also see if you all really think those photos may have captured Amelia Earhart’s plane.
Navigating Crisis: The Art of Leadership and Decision-Making
When storms gather, leaders rise. In the crucible of crisis, leaders face pivotal decisions under the harsh glare of pressure and uncertainty. February, with its reputation for unpredictable weather and challenges, provides a fitting backdrop to examine the essential qualities and frameworks that forge effective leadership during turbulent times.
Situational awareness, a key attribute, guides leaders in both the cockpit and the boardroom. It's a potent blend of knowledge, experience, and sound judgment, honed by a clear-eyed assessment of potential risks. Without it, even the most seasoned leaders can be left floundering. I have always worked with what I call “realistic optimism” - holding two very different thoughts at the same time. The first is having a very real and accurate appreciation for the risks and challenges you’re facing - and the second is knowing that your knowledge, skills, experience, and judgment will arm you with the ability to solve the challenges you’re facing.
Preparation is key to effective leadership. Just as pilots undergo rigorous training and simulations, leaders benefit from exposure to diverse challenges and refining their ability to prioritize effectively. This continuous honing ensures they can navigate even the most tumultuous situations with precision.
In the maelstrom of crisis, leaders act as alchemists, distilling complex problems into manageable pieces and establishing clear priorities. By focusing on tasks with the greatest impact and executing them skillfully, they lead their teams efficiently through the most challenging of situations.
Emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and big data analytics can offer useful decision-making aids. However, it's crucial to remember that at least for now, technology can only do what has been foreseen and for which it has been programmed; humans, on the other hand, are by far the most adaptable and resilient part of the equation. Humans are the ones who can suddenly face an unimagined crisis they have never trained for, devise a plan that will work, and execute it successfully in less than three and a half minutes, saving every life. Technology cannot replace human judgment, especially when working with incomplete or ambiguous information.
Ultimately, leadership in crisis management demands a finely tuned balance between confidence and caution, and embracing both the human component and technological advancements. As we navigate challenges, we can draw lessons and inspiration from the aviation industry's unwavering commitment to safety, preparedness, and resilience.
Takeoff Traditions: Unveiling the World of Pre-Flight Duties and Habits
Have you ever wondered what pilots, cabin crew, and even passengers do before a flight? Beyond the usual security checks and boarding procedures, there exists a fascinating world of pre-flight habits. This month I asked you all to share with me your unique routines. These personal practices, ranging from the seemingly mundane to the surprisingly unique, offer a glimpse into the minds of those who travel the skies.
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Pre-flight rituals are far from uncommon. From pilots having a particular place to stow their sunglasses to passengers ‘making their nest’ when they get to their seats, the variety of practices is intriguing. Interestingly, the motivations behind these rituals are just as diverse. Some individuals seek comfort and routine in a potentially stressful environment, while others hold onto cultural beliefs or personal superstitions.
So, the next time you board a plane, take a moment to observe the subtle pre-flight routines of those around you. These seemingly ordinary actions might just unveil a hidden world of personal traditions and fascinating insights into the human experience of flight.
Was that Amelia Earhart’s plane?
In case you missed it, Tony Romeo, pilot, and former U.S. Air Force officer, took a sonar image of what he believes is Earhart’s Lockheed 10-E Electra. 65.4% of you say it’s too early to say for sure, and I agree. As exciting as it would be to say her plane has been found, I’m looking forward to seeing more evidence.
Connect with me on social media
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Thank you for joining me on this month's journey. Together, let's continue to learn, reflect, and soar through the ever-changing skies.
Fair skies and following winds,
Captain Sully Sullenberger
Fourth year Aeronautical Sciences Student at University of Hawaii at Hilo, Future Pilot and aspiring musician.
9moVery interesting and nicely compiled and was Very concise. I liked the parts about talking about Pre-Flight rituals whether a passenger or Flight Crewmember and if that was really Amelia Earhart’s plane. I do hope one day they Find out what really happend to her as she was and is an inspirarion for Women to join the Aviation industry this is just the beggining of unraveling that mystery.
CEO Coach, Keynote speaker, Author, Board member
10moWhat a great metaphor for leadership - thank you for writing this Capt. Sully Sullenberger
Vice-President, Aerospace & Autonomous Programs
10moGreat piece, Sully! I like your particular take on AI (which I also extend to include to some degree the extensive code in today’s aviation systems such as aircraft flight control and flight management systems), that is: “…However, it's crucial to remember that at least for now, technology can only do what has been foreseen and for which it has been programmed; humans, on the other hand, are by far the most adaptable and resilient part of the equation.” The “for which it has been programmed” (or trained, for adaptive/machine learning systems) is an important element, because if the programmers, as experienced as they may be and as thourough as the software design process may be, didn’t capture the entirety of an aircraft’s (or sub-system’s) performance, then with will revert to the human in the loop to assess and deal with as capably as possible. It is those well-beyond normal…i.e. crisis, situations that the human’s inherent adaptability and value of the pre-flight preps will (or should hopefully) come to bear, to ensure a successful outcome. Thanks again Sully, for keeping our minds fed with good things to consider.