Why was I so trusting? - ORM Corner

Approach, April, 2002 by Ingrid Muller

Why had I been so trusting? I should have said, "No thanks, I don't want to fly in this weather; I don't think it's a good idea. Let's do it tomorrow." But I didn't. Instructors taught us to speak up about safety no matter what rank the other person is, but I just didn't realize the severity of the situation.

I had gone through flight school in Corpus Christi in the summertime, and the storms were the first I had seen since arriving. I also trusted my instructor completely. I have no idea why; I was just so inexperienced at the time, and I thought everyone knew more. I've learned to speak up when something is questionable. That's what ORM is all about.

ORM is a process that works. It's for salty aviators as well as those still wet behind the ears. It's for everybody, all the time, and it shouldn't take a sea story to remind you to use it. My old on-wing would be the first to tell you he's capable of killing someone.

Are you?

ORM Corner

Please send your questions, comments or recommendations to Ted Wirginis or to Capt. Denis M. Faherty, Director Operational Risk Management

Ted Wirginis's address is: Code 11A, Naval Safety Center, 375 A St., Norfolk, VA 23511-4299. (757) 444-3520, ext. 7271 (DSN-564). E-mail: twirginis@safetycenter.navy.mil

Write Capt. Faherty at OPNAV Code N-09K, 2000 Navy Pentagon, Rm. 5E-816, Washington DC 20350-2000. (703) 614-8430, (DSN-224). E-mail: faherty.denis@hq.navy.mil

Lt. Muller flies with HSL-48.