Written by UK CAA Standards Document 29. Version 9.1, September 2025
Source: UK Civil Aviation Authority.
Produced by experts from the UK Flight Operations Human Factors Advisory Panel (FOHFAP), the CAA’s Standards Document 29 is the principal guidance on the requirements for the training and assessment of Human Factors (HF) and Crew Resource Management (CRM) for flight crew under UK Part FCL(flight crew licensing) and UK Part ORO (organisational requirements). It consolidates regulatory expectations, training standards, and assessment principles to ensure that CRM/HF training is consistently designed, delivered and evaluated in a way that supports safe flight operations.
The document’s core purpose is to clarify both compliance-based and competency-based approaches to CRM/Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) training, including the use of ATQP and Evidence-Based Training (EBT) where permitted by Part ORO. It bridges regulatory text (AMC/GM to Part FCL/ORO) with practical expectations on what constitutes acceptable HF/CRM training and how it should be integrated throughout flight crew initial, conversion and recurrent training.
SD 29 is also significant because it defines roles, qualifications and standards for CRM Trainers (CRMTs) and CRM Trainer Examiners (CRMTEs), emphasising the importance of instructor competence, assessment methods and standardisation across training providers and operators. This focus helps ensure that CRM trainers are not just subject-matter experts but are capable of facilitating learning, embedding non-technical skills, and assessing these competencies in realistic contexts.
Importantly, SD 29 supports the consistent assessment of non-technical performance, including the use of behavioural marker systems such as NOTECHS, and clarifies how CRM competencies should be assessed during licence skill tests, proficiency checks, line checks, and within competency-based programmes.
SD 29 exists to helps UK operators and training organisations translate high-level regulatory requirements into demonstrable training performance standards, but it also offers good advice for non-UK operators on best practice for CRM training, improving the robustness, relevance and safety impact of CRM/HF.
Contents summary by chapter
1. Purpose and Scope
Defines the intent of SD 29 and its applicability to UK flight crew licensing and operator training. It explains how the document supports UK Part-FCL and UK Part-ORO requirements for Human Factors (HF), CRM, and MCC training.
2. Regulatory Framework
Outlines the relationship between SD 29, EASA-derived regulations, AMC/GM material, and UK-specific interpretations. Clarifies where SD 29 provides acceptable means of compliance and best practice guidance.
3. Human Factors and CRM Training Philosophy
Describes the objectives of HF and CRM training, including the development of non-technical skills, threat and error management, and safety-oriented attitudes. Emphasises continuous, integrated training rather than stand-alone events.
4. CRM and MCC Training Requirements
Details requirements for initial, conversion, and recurrent CRM/MCC training, including content areas, training methods, and minimum exposure. Covers both multi-crew and single-pilot contexts where applicable.
5. Assessment of CRM and Non-Technical Skills
Provides guidance on assessing CRM competencies during skill tests, proficiency checks, line checks, and within competency-based frameworks. References behavioural marker systems (e.g. NOTECHS) and principles of fair, observable assessment.
6. CRM Trainer and Examiner Standards
Defines roles, qualifications, experience, training, and standardisation requirements for CRM Trainers (CRMTs) and CRM Trainer Examiners (CRMTEs).
7. Integration with CBTA, ATQP, and EBT
Explains how CRM fits within competency-based training, Advanced Qualification Programmes, and Evidence-Based Training.
8. Oversight and Quality Assurance
Outlines expectations for operator oversight, standardisation, record-keeping, and continuous improvement.
Appendices
Provide detailed guidance, examples, and supporting material for training and assessment.