The Nepal Crash Investigation: How Procedural Simulators Can Improve Pilot Professionalism

As air travel has become an increasingly important part of our lives, safety precautions and measures have become highly significant. To ensure the safety of passengers and crew, the aviation industry must keep abreast with the latest technology and equipment.

Although tragic, the recent Nepal crash has provided us with critical data on how we can improve air travel safety standards. The investigation felt that the probable cause of this accident was the co-pilot's inadvertent feathering of the propellers.

According to the investigation, the co-pilot intended to lower the flaps for landing to 30 degrees but instead probably lowered the propeller feathering levers, feathering both propellers. This was due to the haste while instructing the pilot on the left on familiarization with the new airfield. This incident emphasizes the need to practice, practice and practice so that the motion of the hands goes to the correct intended controls.

More training opportunities for pilots could be one solution to avoiding such incidents. While conventional Level D simulators are expensive and may not be available to all pilots, procedural simulators can be a viable cheaper option, to provide the necessary continuous training and practice at a much lower cost. Procedural simulators simulate high-pressure situations like extreme weather, system malfunctions, and other critical situations that pilots may face in real life and provide them with the practice they need to handle such situations with ease.

Furthermore, procedural simulators can be configured to simulate specific airports, allowing pilots to become acquainted with new airfields and landing procedures. This type of training can be beneficial, especially for pilots who frequently travel to new places.

Ultimately, the recent Nepal crash investigation has provided us with valuable information on how to further improve air travel safety standards. The use of procedural simulators can provide pilots with the necessary training to handle high-pressure situations with ease, resulting in safer air travel for all.