American Airlines' Pilot Hiring Criteria

Since 1964, American Airlines' pilot hiring criteria have evolved from a subjective estimate of the applicant's flying and technical skills to include personality characteristics which predict the ability of the applicant to perform effectively as pilot-in-command. Although the application of these criteria appears to have produced desirable results, specific training must be done to maximize the CRM aspects of pilot performance and the avoidance of human error. A concern for future pilot selection is associated with the introduction of advanced technology flight deck components, which may require a higher level of intellectual skill than previous generations of transport aircraft.