Pilot error

Type: Concept

As of November 2026, Pilot error has been mentioned in one podcast episode on Megyn Kelly (Nov 2026). Identified by the NTSB as one of the items they will examine when determining the cause of the crash.

In aviation, pilot error generally refers to an action or decision made by a pilot that is a substantial contributing factor leading to an aviation accident. It also includes a pilot's failure to make a correct decision or take proper action. Errors are intentional actions that fail to achieve their intended outcomes. The Chicago Convention defines the term "accident" as "an occurrence associated with the operation of an aircraft [...] in which [...] a person is fatally or seriously injured [...