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.