The Aviators Model Code of Conduct[1] (Code of Conduct) offers recommendations designed to advance flight safety, airmanship, and the general aviation (GA) community. Available in five versions and language translations (see below), the Code of Conduct presents a vision of excellence for aviators and serves as a unique safety tool. Its principles complement and underscore legal requirements, although the Code of Conduct is not a standard and is not intended to be implemented as one. More than two hundred aviation experts have contributed to the initiative, providing subject matter, industry, academic, and flight expertise—supporting and expanding this volunteer, non-profit, free-of-charge flight safety initiative.
Background
editThe Code of Conduct originated in 2003 as a one-page summary of “lessons learned” in response to apparent gaps in primary and instrument flight training. Traditional flight training is task-oriented[2], and often lacks an overarching vision of excellence and a sense of the deeper, long-term goals that should instill an uncompromising commitment to safety, professionalism, and thoughtful decision-making. Conceived to fill the gap between regulations and the ideals of airmanship, the Code of Conduct was crafted to improve the pilot’s ability to make wise choices and execute wise decisions—to advance a safer aviation environment and more robust GA community.
Versions
editThe Code of Conduct has been published in various versions, each supporting an important aspect of GA:
- Aviators Model Code of Conduct (AMCC)
- Glider Aviators Model Code of Conduct (GAMCC)
- Light Sport Aviators Model Code of Conduct (LSAMCC)
- Seaplane Pilots Model Code of Conduct (SEAPMCC)
- Student Pilots Model Code of Conduct (SPMCC)
- Very Light Jet Aviators Model Code of Conduct (VLJAMCC - expected late 2008)
- Aircraft Maintenance Technicians Model Code of Conduct (AMTMCC - expected summer 2008)
Translations
editThe Code of Conduct is available in the following languages:[3] Chinese, Danish, English, French, German, Hebrew, and Spanish, each of which was developed with the direct participation of local aviation organizations and professionals to reflect relevant customs, practices, and national requirements. Additional language translations are under development.
Code of Conduct Organization
editThe Code of Conduct has seven sections, each containing Principles and Sample Recommended Practices.
The Principles
edit- General Responsibilities of Aviators
- Passengers and People on the Surface
- Training and Proficiency
- Security
- Environmental Issues
- Use of Technology
- Advancement and Promotion of General Aviation
The Sample Recommended Practices
editSample Recommended Practices are basic suggestions for using the Code of Conduct’s principles and tailoring the principles to specific aviation communities and organizations. The Sample Recommended Practices may be modified to satisfy the unique requirements of each pilot, mission, aircraft, and GA organization. They are not presented in any particular order except that instrument flight rule (IFR)-specific Sample Recommended Practices generally appear last.
The Commentary
editThe Commentary on selected provisions of the Code of Conduct provides discussion, interpretive guidance, and suggested ways to adopt the Code. Extensive annotations to primary and secondary sources are also included. Additional sections will be added as the Commentary evolves.
Ancillary Materials:
Various ancillary materials support the Code of Conduct including a Passenger Briefing Package for land planes and a Seaplane Passenger Briefing for pilots of seaplanes.
Implementation
editThe Notes for Prospective Implementers[4] provide implementation guidance and resources for individuals and organizations adopting the Code of Conduct. Each version of the Code of Conduct has been adopted or otherwise implemented within the GA community. For example, the Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) adopted the COPA Code of Conduct and Cirrus Design provides a copy to new Cirrus aircraft owners. The Cessna Owner Organization and the Piper Owners Society have adopted the Code of Conduct. Aviation insurance (e.g, Avemco), and education entities (e.g., National Association of Flight Instructors, and Gleim) have embraced the Code of Conduct. The Federal Aviation Administration includes various versions of the Code of Conduct as Online resources. Other noteworthy implementers include Mooney Airplane, and the leading light sport aircraft manufacturer Flight Design. A feature article in FLYING Magazine concludes, "its time for all good men to do something. Download your own copy of the Aviators Model Code of Conduct."
Management and Oversight
editThe Code of Conduct is managed and supported by a diverse group of experts within the Permanent Editorial Board. A formal agreement describes the roles and responsibilities of the Permanent Editorial Board (PEB) and bolsters the transparency of the PEB's actions. A volunteer cadre supplements the PEB with specialized subject matter expertise and support.