Exploring human error and related factors of aviation flight safety events using post-incident classification systems

Abstract

Within aviation, a human error classification system theoretically allows researchers to analyse post-accident data in an objective yet consistent manner. The primary objective of the present study was to explore human error using two widely known classification systems - the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HF ACS) and the Cognitive Error Taxonomy. It was predicted that the results may elucidate comparative differences between military and civilian aviation mishaps, as well as between fixed-wing and rotary-wing incidents. This research analysed 288 aviation incidents involving human error garnered from an Australasian military organization. The results depicted several statistically significant relationships between HF ACS categories in the operational level and latent inadequacies at the higher levels. Differences were found between fixed-wing and rotary-wing incidents, and between military and civilian domains of aviation.