Psychological testing and pilot licensing

This article reviews contemporary trends in the psychological testing of pilots. It is written in the particular context of draft European Joint Aviation Authorities licensing proposals which, in certain circumstances, envisage psychological testing for pilot licensing purposes. The article aims to clarify issues relating to the validity, reliability, and value of pilot psychological testing in this particular context. It is first suggested that the entire domain is characterized by terminological and methodological confusion. The economic and other benefits of psychological testing are contrasted with the potential risks, including abuse and the use of tests in circumstances for which they were never designed. Reference also is made to cultural differences that potentially may impact on the practical realities of psychological testing--especially within the European context, where the debate is presently at its most intense.