When should a flight instructor begin teaching aeronautical decision making to a student?

Teaching aeronautical decision-making (ADM) as soon as the student is able to control the aircraft during basic maneuvers is essential because it embeds critical thinking into the training process early on. At this stage, the student begins to experience the dynamics of flight firsthand and is capable of understanding the importance of decision-making in various scenarios.

Starting ADM instruction after the basic maneuvers ensures that the student can apply theoretical knowledge to real-time situations. As they practice basic flight skills, they also learn to assess risk, evaluate alternatives, and make informed decisions—skills that are crucial for safe flight operations. This integrated approach aligns with the development of a pilot’s situational awareness and judgment, making it a fundamental part of their training regimen from the onset.

Other choices imply waiting until later stages of training, which may overlook the foundational role that decision-making plays throughout all phases of flight. Integrating ADM from the beginning helps to cultivate a mindset focused on safety and effective decision-making, ultimately promoting better pilot performance.