Which description best characterizes Aeronautical Decision-Making (ADM)?

• A. A procedure for filing flight plans
• B. A weather briefing technique
• C. A systematic approach to consider risks, assess options, and make decisions
• D. A method of controlling airplane systems

Answer: (C)

Aeronautical Decision-Making is a structured, thinking process pilots use to manage risk during flight. It centers on recognizing hazards, assessing how serious the risk is, generating and evaluating possible actions, and choosing the option that minimizes risk while still achieving the flight objective. In practice, when something unexpected occurs, you identify the hazard, estimate the risk, consider alternatives (diverting, delaying, changing altitude, requesting help), select the safest course, and then implement and monitor your decision. This aligns with a systematic approach to consider risks, assess options, and make decisions. It isn’t about filing flight plans, weather briefing techniques, or directly controlling aircraft systems.