10.46 Situational Awareness

10.46.2 Define situational awareness.

Situational awareness is the ability to perceive, comprehend and predict the current and future state of the environment around us.

It involves being aware of:

• our surroundings;
• the people and objects within them;
• what is happening around us; and
• potential hazards or risks that may be present.

Situational awareness involves not only observing the environment, but also processing and interpreting the information received, anticipating potential changes or risks, and making decisions based on that information.

In aviation, good situational awareness helps pilots:

• make informed decisions;
• recognise and avoid hazards;
• anticipate developing situations; and
• respond effectively to changes.

Key point

Situational awareness involves:

Perceiving what is happening → Understanding what it means → Anticipating what may happen next.

10.46.4 Describe strategies to maintain and enhance situational awareness.

Maintaining and enhancing situational awareness is important for safe flight operations.

Strategies that can help include:

1. Observe Your Environment

Pay attention to your surroundings, including: