There are five common hazardous attitudes that negatively impact the safety of flight, these are anti-authority, impulsivity, invulnerability, macho and resignation.

Once a pilot recognizes the hazardous attitude, appropriate antidote can be applied to minimize the impact of the hazardous attitude.

Anti-authority is when pilots don’t like anyone telling them what to do.  To counter this attitude, one must follow the rules.

Impulsivity is the when a pilot feels the need to do something quickly, when not warranted.  To counter this attitude, think first and not act so fast.

Invulnerability is when a pilot thinks that nothing bad can happen to them.  To counter this attitude, one must remember that dangerous situations can happen to anyone.

Macho attitude is when a pilot tries to prove that they can do something for which they are not properly trained.  To counter this attitude, remember that taking chances is foolish.

Resignation is when a pilot believes that there is no hope.  To counter this attitude, remember that you are not helpless and you can make a difference.

Reference(s):

FAA-H-8083-25B Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge pg. 2-4
FAA AC 60-22 Aeronautical Decision Making pg. 11

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