Risk Management Magazine

Institutional lore records a myriad of instances where an aviator did something foolish and dinged, bent or damaged an aircraft; received minor, if any, punishment; and went on to become a valuable part of the organization.

It was a clear, cool day in Afghanistan when the aircraft departed the runway under perfect visual flight rules conditions. While climbing to cruise altitude in a left-hand orbit, air traffic control contacted the pilot and vectored him to a 180 heading to deconflict with other traffic.

Years ago, I learned the value of speaking up for what’s right, regardless of the consequences. Early in my career as an Army aviator, I was told if I closed my pie hole and opened my ears, I might learn something. I was careful not to judge other pilots’ mistakes too harshly because one day I may do something less than brilliant. We have all done something stupid, whether we admit it or not.