Written by By Özlem Munise Kaynak, İstanbul Aydın University, Aviation Management.
Source: Journal of Aviation
This qualitative study explores how CRM training translates into real operational practice from the perspective of cabin crew members in commercial air passenger transport. Using semi-structured interviews with 19 active cabin crew, the research examines whether the knowledge, attitudes, and skills imparted in CRM courses are reflected during day-to-day flight operations.
The findings indicate that CRM training positively influences situational awareness, communication, teamwork, stress and workload management, and proactive safety behaviors, suggesting that core non-technical skills are indeed carried over into the field. Participants also reported that CRM principles help shape safety-focused attitudes and collaborative behaviours in pre-flight and in-flight contexts.
Importantly, the study highlights operational challenges — notably a need for more practical, interactive, and participant-centred training methods to strengthen real-world application and retention of CRM skills. This underscores the value of experiential learning and ongoing feedback loops in CRM curriculum design.
The full study is available in PDF format at the – LINK
Abstract:
| In the air transportation sector, flight safety stands as one of the foremost values. To ensure safety, airlines rely on Crew Resource Management (CRM) training. These training programs aim to foster coordination, communication, and awareness among all personnel involved in flight operations, encouraging rational responses to potential issues as a unified team. Naturally, as is the case with any training process, the practical applicability of CRM training alongside its theoretical structure is of paramount importance. Hence, this study, conducted within the framework of qualitative research, delves into the perspectives of cabin crew members regarding CRM training by evaluating its content, benefits, and real-life field applications. Employing interview-based methodology, qualitative data were gathered from 19 cabin crew participants through purposive sampling. The collected data underwent descriptive analysis, leading to certain conclusions. The findings illustrate that CRM training has a positive impact on emotional and knowledge management, communication skills, team collaboration, and a proactive approach in matters of safety. It underscores that CRM training significantly permeates into the realm of real-world applications—namely, flight operations. However, participants highlighted certain issues and emphasized the need for more practical, interactive, and participant-centered training methods for the enhancement of CRM training, aiming to address those concerns. |