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      1. Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT)
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      Maximum UPRT Effectiveness: APS Every Pilot In Control Solution Standard™ (EPIC-S2™)

      APS Industry Leadership: The EPIC-S2™ Standard for Effective Upset Prevention and Recovery Training.

      Introduction

      Over the past 50 years, Loss of Control In-flight (LOC-I) has consistently been one of the leading causes of aviation accidents and crash-related fatalities. To combat this alarming trend, Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) has emerged as a critical solution to equip pilots with the necessary skills to recognize, prevent, and recover from unexpected airplane upsets. The Every Pilot In Control Solution Standard (EPIC-S2™) is a groundbreaking framework that provides comprehensive guidelines for implementing effective UPRT programs, significantly reducing the risk of LOC-I for pilots and passengers worldwide.

      Understanding the Problem

      LOC-I has persisted as the number one cause of fatalities in all sectors of aviation over the last decade. The existing civil pilot certification training does not comprehensively address the unique and counterintuitive skills necessary for UPRT, leaving a significant training gap. UPRT is urgently needed to fill this void and enhance pilot proficiency in recognizing, preventing, and recovering from unexpected upsets.

      The Purpose of EPIC-S2™

      The EPIC-S2™ framework aims to provide a detailed explanation of six key factors critical for effective UPRT implementation. These factors have proven to be essential in successful UPRT programs and significantly reduce the risk of LOC-I for pilots who undergo such training. By adhering to the EPIC-S2™ standards and practices, aviation can achieve a substantial improvement in safety and create more resilient pilots with enhanced skills.

      EPIC-S2 for Optimized UPRT

      Critical Factors for Effective UPRT

      1. Qualified and Standardized UPRT Instructors

      The role of instructors is paramount in delivering effective UPRT. Qualified instructors must possess extensive experience in flying in the all-attitude environment and undergo rigorous UPRT-specific training. Their expertise and training ensure safe and effective delivery of advanced upset training.

      2. Integrated Program

      The most effective, safe, and long-lasting upset training is accomplished through an integrated combination of industry-approved loss of control academics, all-attitude aircraft training, and expertly integrated advanced flight simulation training. This integration maximizes training effectiveness and skill retention, deepening airmanship and manual handling skills.

      3. Training Intensity

      Training intensity is critical in addressing human factors in upsets. Intense and focused training over the duration of the course, along with the depth and frequency of human factors integration, prepares pilots to respond accurately and decisively in unexpected situations.

      4. Best Practices Compliant

      Adherence to proven best practices is essential for safety in all sectors of aviation, including UPRT. Proper UPRT training should be in strict compliance with detailed guidelines set forth by National Aviation Authorities, ensuring effective practices are implemented.

      5. Purpose-Built Platforms

      On-aircraft training in all-altitude, aerobatic-capable airplanes is essential for developing advanced manual handling skills and overcoming critical human factors. Purpose-built platforms provide a real-world training experience, preparing pilots to handle upsets in a crisis event.

      6. Initial & Recurrent Training

      UPRT skills are perishable and require regular practice to maintain proficiency. Initial UPRT training establishes a strong foundation, while recurrent training ensures pilots maintain and refresh their skills regularly.

      Compliance and Evaluation

      The EPIC-S2™ Compliance Guide provides a comprehensive checklist of objective compliance parameters for each critical UPRT implementation factor. The companion EPIC-S2™ Evaluation Tool allows for assessing compliance to the principles of EPIC-S2™ UPRT.

      Conclusion

      LOC-I remains a significant challenge in aviation safety. The Every Pilot In Control Solution Standard (EPIC-S2™) offers a comprehensive framework to address this critical issue by promoting effective UPRT programs worldwide.

      By prioritizing qualified instructors, integrated training, training intensity, best practices compliance, purpose-built platforms, and recurrent training, the aviation industry can significantly reduce the risk of LOC-I and enhance the safety of pilots and passengers globally. Adopting the EPIC-S2™ standard is a crucial step towards creating safer skies and building more resilient pilots capable of handling unexpected situations with confidence and expertise.

       

      References

      1. Aviation Performance Solutions (APS). (2021). EPIC-S2 Standard for Every Pilot In Control Solution. Retrieved from https://apstraining.com/epic-s2

      2. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). (n.d.). Manual on Aeroplane Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (Doc 10011). Retrieved from https://www.icao.int/safety/LOC-I/Documents/Doc10011.pdf

      3. International Air Transport Association (IATA). (n.d.). Airplane Upset Recovery Training Aid. Retrieved from https://www.iata.org/en/iata-repository/publications/flight-operations-documents/airplane-upset-recovery-training-aid/

      4. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). (2015). Loss of Control Avoidance and Recovery Training Aviation Rulemaking Committee (LOCART ARC) Final Report. Retrieved from https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/rulemaking/committees/documents/media/LOCART%20Final%20Report.pdf

      5. Boeing. (n.d.). Commercial Aviation Safety Team. Retrieved from https://www.boeing.com/commercial/safety/