FAA Industry Training Standards

There are four levels of FITS acceptance:

1. Accepted FITS Flight Syllabus: Involves actual flight training.

2. Accepted FITS Syllabus (No flight): Focuses on enhancing specific skills without full cockpit integration.

3. Accepted FITS Self-Learning Program: Interactive courses for specific applications or skills.

4. Accepted FITS Supporting Material: Products that support FITS but do not meet all training tenets2.

Training Philosophy

FITS training adopts a scenario-based approach, prioritizing critical thinking and flight management over traditional maneuver-based skills. This method aims to accelerate the acquisition of higher-level decision-making skills necessary to prevent pilot-induced accidents. The training incorporates elements such as aeronautical decision-making, situational awareness, and risk management, reflecting the need for pilots to adapt to the complexities of modern aviation3.

Teaching Methods

Effective Scenario Based Training (SBT) requires clear communication between the instructor and the pilot in training regarding the flight's purpose, desired outcomes, and potential in-flight changes. The training should simulate realistic scenarios to enhance learning4. SBT emphasizes real-world performance, contrasting with traditional methods that focus solely on individual maneuvers5.

Single Pilot Resource Management (SRM)

SRM is a framework for managing resources available to a single pilot, integrating concepts like risk management and situational awareness. It emphasizes the importance of decision-making in various flight scenarios, encouraging pilots to analyze situations based on their experience and current conditions12. The "5P" check (Plan, Plane, Pilot, Passengers, Programming) is a practical tool for pilots to evaluate their situation at key decision points during a flight14.

Learner Centered Grading

The FITS approach incorporates learner-centered grading, which focuses on the pilot in training's self-assessment and instructor feedback. This method aims to foster growth in decision-making and performance, moving away from traditional grading scales that may not accurately reflect a pilot's understanding and capabilities20. The desired outcomes include various levels of proficiency in both maneuver tasks and SRM principles, promoting a more holistic approach to pilot training23.

In summary, the FITS Syllabus represents a modern approach to pilot training, emphasizing real-world scenarios, critical thinking, and a learner-centered methodology to enhance decision-making and overall flight safety.