Professionalism for all
A higher standard of flying
They are your principal support system during training. When questions arise, setbacks pile up, or you turn pessimistic over ever reaching your goal—all normal, by the way—it is the CFI’s lesser-known responsibility as a mentor that imparts support, encouragement, and advice.
But what about the day after you have earned your coveted wings? How can you stay safe and proficient? Whom can you call when you need access to experience beyond your current level? The FAA may be on to something.
Early in 2020, the agency issued an Advisory Circular (AC 121-43) that required FAR Part 121 air carriers, operators, and program managers involved in training to develop and implement a mentoring program for all pilots in command in their employ. The advisory circular was in response to the NTSB’s analysis of two fatal accidents and a limited study that revealed the accidents were caused by a lack of professionalism by the pilots in command. You might ask, “How does this apply to me, a student pilot?”
Professionalism is not an ambiguous concept specific to paid pilots. The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) defines the term this way: “Professionalism in aviation is the pursuit of excellence through discipline, ethical behavior, and continuous improvement.” No matter the path you pursue, whether as an airline or recreational pilot, your actions are determined by your character, and your character is developed through learning and experience. Enlisting a mentor can be its gateway.
Within the chapters of ASI’s online flight instructor refresher course is a reference to the importance of the CFI as a mentor. The course material is a reminder of how quickly new pilots lose proficiency, then interest, and the many who hang up their wings altogether. As much as commercial pilots need a mentor, the student pilot may also significantly benefit from mentorship.
What is the mentor/protégé relationship, and how can it make a safer pilot? A mentor is an experienced pilot and aviation enthusiast willing and available to give back to the community by passing their knowledge and love of flying to the next generation of aviators. The relationship between mentor and protégé is at its core supportive, with its vital benefit being one-to-one engagement. This connection can further develop communication skills, ensure a reliable route with whom the protégé can direct questions, and create an example of professionalism worthy of imitation.
How to find or become a mentor? The path to finding a mentor is identical to finding a protégé. Foremost, don’t be a stranger at your base airport. There you will be exposed to numerous volunteer opportunities, including directing aircraft during a fly-in, an airshow, or other events. Get involved with your local aviation community and hang out with other pilots who share your aviation goals. Also, many airports rent hangar space to flying clubs. You will enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded folks, plus flying clubs commonly rent their aircraft at a reduced rate to members. Lastly, check out your local Civil Air Patrol. Acting primarily as support for the U.S. Air Force since World War II, CAP’s core values—integrity, volunteer service, excellence, and respect—epitomize the mentor/protégé relationship and its rewards.
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