HE00725 - Bridge Team Terminology in the Master/Pilot relationship

After the collision of the Cosco Busan in San Francisco Bay communication in the master/pilot relationship has become a hot item again.

Masters and pilots are becoming more aware of the importance of clear and unambiguous communication. And if not so, the world around them is pressuring them to work and communicate together as a team. Last month I flew from Amsterdam to Stockholm and saw the cabin and the cockpit crew of my flight meeting for the first time. It was clear that they did not know each other.

The pilots were laughing, making jokes and shaking hands while the cabin crew was just a step away. There was a polite nod to them but they were not directly addressed. However during the flight I overheard their communication and it was clear that they used standard phrases. This is the result of extensive training. They are unambiguously informed and know exactly what to do and what to expect from each other. They love working this way and love their jobs.

I realised that in the past this was not normal at all. Power distance, lack of assertiveness and no delegation were the basis of day to day behaviour but the consequences of that in flying were disastrous. Standard phrases were introduced and clear standard operational procedures were stated and now every crewmember is aware of his or her duties. Extensive training on simple and clear behaviour makes all the difference.

As a BRM Workshopleader I have often been told that my workshop is good for awareness but not really giving good workable answers. As a marine pilot I understand these remarks. Maybe the time has come to give a different solution for the cooperation between pilots, masters and crew: Bridge communication and terminology can be standardised. VTS, the airline industry and industrial plants do it. Even hospital crews do it. To be honest when I have to be hospitalized, I surely hope doctors and nurses are communicating as a team and understand each other clearly.