The development of the prototype Helicopter Non-technical Skills (HeliNOTS) behavioural marker systems

Objective: Non-technical skill behavioural marker systems were developed for two distinct helicopter operation types; search and rescue and offshore transport. Background: Behavioural marker systems are tailored observational frameworks geared towards the assessment of non-technical skills and their associated elements by way of role-specific behavioural markers. To date, behavioural marker systems exist across a variety of high-risk occupations, however no identifiable system exists based upon data derived from rotary operatives. Method: Discussion groups (n=9) were undertaken with subject matter experts (n=20) including pilots and technical crew operating across search and rescue and offshore transport environments, geared towards the identification of role-specific behavioural markers. Systems were reviewed on an iterative basis by the academic team and received final reviews by additional subject matter experts (n=6). Results: Two behavioural marker systems were constructed; HeliNOTS (O) for offshore transport pilots and HeliNOTS (SAR) for search and rescue crews. Both share the same core non-technical skill categories, but each includes a unique category - ‘cognitive readiness’ for search and rescue, and ‘workload management’ for offshore transport. While elements were consistent across categories, behavioural markers varied based upon operational role. Conclusion: The results confirm the need for tailored behavioural marker systems across helicopter mission types and provide role-specific behavioural makers for SAR and offshore transport crews. Application: The HeliNOTS behavioural marker systems represent a significant step towards a nuanced approach to training and assessment of helicopter flight crews’ non-technical skills and are the first publicly available systems tailored to these distinct mission types.