Support Group Formed to Help Pilots Get Back Into the Cockpit After an Accident

May 2017

Editor’s note: I want all technical counselors and flight advisors to be aware of this new group. In your role, you may be closest to a member who has an accident. I believe this group can serve a pivotal role in helping pilots get past an accident and return to the sky.

Surviving an accident is oftentimes the beginning of a challenging time for a pilot. The FAA will investigate, the wreckage will have to be dealt with, insurance claims have to be filed, and everyone will want to know what happened. But the most challenging issue a pilot faces will be the self-doubt that has suddenly surfaced. The emotional toll can be heavy, and some pilots may feel like they need to simply walk away from flying. Others hope to return to the cockpit. A new group has formed to support pilots as they move forward.

Back to the Cockpit has been formed as a support group for pilots who have recently experienced an accident to help them return to flying. The group is being started by pilots who have successfully returned to the cockpit after serious accidents. Back to the Cockpit will provide resources and conversation to those pilots who may experience challenges in getting past the aftermath of an accident. The resources will include well-thought-out articles, first-person stories by pilots who have returned to the cockpit, as well as a list of resources for those who wish to pursue this topic further.

Membership will be open to anyone who is interested in furthering the discussion of this important topic.

The group may be reached at BackToTheCockpit@gmail.com. The website is www.BackToTheCockpit.org.