Risk homeostasis in crew resource management: Correlations between individual and paired risk propensities in two-pilot crews

This dissertation explored an intersection of risk homeostasis theory, technology, and aviation. It sampled student pilots with various experience levels to determine if a difference in means exists between individual risk propensity scores and paired crew risk propensity scores under specific laboratory conditions. This study demonstrated that the risk propensity category of crew performance is significantly equivalent to the mean risk propensity performance of the individuals comprising the crew, utilizing a one-sample t test. The study also demonstrated that level of learning, or demonstrated skill levels, are independent of risk propensity. This study utilized a software automated Brinkmanship test as a measurement instrument to determine risk propensity levels in pilot and crew participants.