Crew Resource Management

Crew Resource Management

 Crew Resource Management

Discussion Thread: Southwest Flight 1380

What were some of the decision-making processes involved and crew resource management skills utilized during this flight?

Crew Resource Management

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APA

Crew Resource Management

Key Decision-Making Processes & Crew Resource Management (CRM) Skills

Southwest Flight 1380, which experienced an uncontained engine failure on April 17, 2018, showcased exemplary aviation professionalism and decision-making under extreme pressure. The following outlines the critical decision-making processes and CRM skills used by the flight crew:

1. Situational Awareness

Captain Tammie Jo Shults and her first officer demonstrated acute situational awareness the moment the engine failed. Despite the loud noise, rapid decompression, and sudden drop in altitude, they:

  • Recognized the engine failure immediately.

  • Identified the depressurization and structural damage (including a shattered window).

  • Rapidly donned oxygen masks and initiated emergency descent protocols.

2. Prioritization & Task Management (Aviate–Navigate–Communicate)

The crew applied the classic aviation mantra:

  • Aviate: First, they stabilized the aircraft and controlled its descent.

  • Navigate: They redirected course toward the nearest suitable airport (Philadelphia).

  • Communicate: They then calmly informed air traffic control (ATC), passengers, and coordinated an emergency landing.

3. Clear & Calm Communication

CRM emphasizes assertive yet respectful communication. In this event:

  • The captain’s communication with ATC was concise and composed, even under distress.

  • Inside the cockpit, the pilots shared information efficiently and without panic.

  • Flight attendants relayed safety instructions to passengers effectively, even while managing trauma and injuries.

4. Leadership & Decision Authority

Captain Shults displayed strong leadership by:

  • Taking decisive action quickly.

  • Delegating tasks to her co-pilot and crew.

  • Landing the plane safely despite extensive damage and emotional strain in the cabin.

5. Teamwork and Mutual Support

CRM emphasizes the value of teamwork beyond just the cockpit:

  • The pilots worked as a cohesive unit, supporting each other.

  • The cabin crew responded with urgency and calm, assisting passengers and providing first aid.

  • The overall coordination across all roles ensured the survival of 148 of 149 people onboard.

Conclusion:
Southwest Flight 1380 stands as a powerful case study in CRM excellence. The crew’s training, communication, and composure turned a catastrophic event into a controlled emergency, reinforcing the importance of human factors in aviation safety.

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