Question: Are there ever times where a pilot freaks out, like in instances where they think there's a possibility for a crash?
-- submitted by reader Joe in CT
Answer: Pilots are trained to remain calm and deal with abnormalities or emergencies. The training is intense and intended to stress a pilot candidate, making sure he or she can make decision and execute tasks and checklists under pressure.
It is possible that a pilot may be nervous, but they will act in accordance with their training. My experience is that professional pilots are people who deal with abnormal or emergency situations effectively.
Q: How often do pilots get nervous? Ever?
-- Mike, N.C.
A: People who are prone to getting nervous usually do not make it through flight training. Pilots are extensively trained and this training provides the confidence to fly in adverse conditions. The training and confidence overcome any nervousness. I would say a nervous pilot is a rarity.
Q: How do pilots really feel about turbulence?
-- Bryan, Tulsa, Okla.
A: I think most feel that turbulence is a part of their work environment. Pilots do all they can to minimize or avoid turbulence, but when they are in it they slow down to the turbulence penetration speed, make sure everyone is belted in and ride it out.
Q: I find people fear what they don't understand. I fly a lot, been and always find myself sitting next to a "nervous flier". I explain how and why the plane flies, and the moveable parts, etc., and as soon as they "get it", they're much better. Sometimes, I think the Universe puts them with me to calm their nerves. Thank you for your educating the flying public!
-- Maureen M., Melbourne Fla.
A: That is exactly why I was glad when USA TODAY asked me to do this column. The more people understand, the less frightening things are.
John Cox is a retired airline captain with U.S. Airways and runs his own aviation safety consulting company, Safety Operating Systems.