To manage cockpit stress effectively, pilots must:

Managing cockpit stress is critical for pilots as it directly impacts their decision-making and overall performance. Conditioning oneself to relax and maintain rational thinking in stressful situations enables pilots to cope effectively when they encounter high-pressure scenarios during flight. This proactive approach allows pilots to develop mental resilience and use stress management techniques that can enhance focus and performance.

While avoiding situations that could lead to stress and being aware of life stressors are important, they do not directly equip a pilot with the necessary skills to manage stress in the cockpit when it arises. Likewise, practicing stress management techniques solely during flights is not sufficient, as it fails to establish a comprehensive strategy for stress management that encompasses both training and in-flight scenarios. By conditioning themselves to handle stress, pilots can create a more effective response mechanism that greatly benefits them during critical moments in flight.