Private Pilot Flight Training and Instruction Flight Training Article Library | Back To 4VFR.COM Pilot Error 50 Years Ago In December of 1947 an Air Force study released the following analysis of pilot errors that precipitate accidents. There is no reason to think things have changed since then. 50% of problems are "substitution" errors where the incorrect control is moved 18% are "forgetting" errors in which the pilot forgot to unlock, check or use a control. 18% are "adjustment" errors by operating a control too slowly, rapidly or into the wrong position. 5% are unintentional activation. 6% were "reversal" errors such as moving the control in the wrong direction. 3% are caused by inability to reach a control. Written by Gene Whitt Flight Training Article Library | Back To 4VFR.COM