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Why integrate Safesky into the curriculum of student pilots.

Julien van der Rest - Instructor

Why integrate Safesky into the curriculum of student pilots.

Today, technology permeates virtually every aspect of our everyday life. In certain cases, it replaces human beings in the performance of a task, while in other others, it assists them in their work.
In the aviation sector, the use of technology is often only favoured after learning and mastering the more 'traditional' method.
In fact, before we can experience the pleasure and safety that a navigation software such as Skydemon or ForeFlight can offer, as an instructor I frequently insist on having a thorough understanding of a paper map first.
However, as misused technology may be a source of stress and consequently of risk, educating students how to utilise these tools properly is now also a part of our job.

Challenges of a pilot training
During his pilot training, a student will be facing several challenges. Students can quickly find themselves in mental overload and overwhelming situations. They are forced to make quick decisions, which can make them forget some of the steering elements such as flying, seeing, communicating...
One of the first things to be forgotten is looking outside and observing the surrounding traffic. In aviation, the maxim "see and avoid" is well-known. A student, especially without an instructor, might forget to "see".
It is precisely in this area that technology can have a major benefit and impact on safety.

Role of SafeSky
This is where SafeSky will play a key role.
It is up to the instructors and the aerodromes to anchor the use of this application in the routines of the students and other pilots. The fact that it can be used in a completely passive manner is its main interest for an instructor. Indeed, it is important to avoid burdening the student with any additional work, especially in the beginning. This is possible with SafeSky. The student can simply turn on the application with his smartphone and put it in his pocket. This is enough for other pilots who are using the SafeSky app or a compatible one to see him.

In a second step, the student can use this application to further develop his situational awareness knowledge. This can sometimes be difficult for an inexperienced pilot, hence the role of an instructor. Once the training is completed, the student can link this application to his navigation software and thus put all the safety chances on his side.

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