Decision-making is one of the core skills a student pilot must develop—every bit as important as stick-and-rudder flying. Here’s why it’s essential and how it shows up in training and real flying: 1. Safety Starts in the Cockpit, Not the Weather Briefing Most accidents aren’t caused by a mechanical failure—they stem from poor pilot judgment (e.g., pressing on into worsening weather, running low on fuel, or ignoring fatigue). Good aeronautical decision-making (ADM) helps a pilot recognize hazards

The Seven Steps of Decision Making