title: Pilot training: What can surgeons learn from it?
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To provide healthcare professionals with an insight into training in aviation and its possible transfer into surgery.
  
  
  METHODS
  From research online and into company archives, relevant publications and information were identified.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Current airline pilot training consists of two categories, basic training and type-rating. Training methods comprise classroom instruction, computer-based training and practical training, in either the aircraft or a flight-training device, which ranges from a fixed-base flight-training device to a full flight simulator. Pilot training not only includes technical and procedural instruction, but also training in non-technical skills like crisis management, decision-making, leadership and communication. Training syllabuses, training devices and instructors are internationally standardized and these standards are legally binding. Re-qualification and recurrent training are mandatory at all stages of a pilot's and instructor's career.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Surgeons and pilots have much in common, i.e., they work in a 'real-time' three-dimensional environment under high physiological and psychological stress, operating expensive equipment, and the ultimate cost for error is measured in human lives. However, their training differs considerably. Transferring these well-tried aviation methods into healthcare will make surgical training more efficient, more effective and ultimately safer.
authors.affiliation: smacmed, Bad Camberg, Germany.
authors.forename: Kai-Jörg
authors.initials: KJ
authors.lastname: Sommer
keywords: EASA, European Aviation Safety Agency; FAA, USA Federal Aviation Authority; Patient safety; Performance evaluation; Training