Airline managers argue that former generals face difficulty obeying international Crew Resource Management (CRM) rules and fail to establish successful communication with junior pilots and those of lower rank.Pegasus Airlines General Director Sertaç Haybat said they have not hired any former generals in the past year, adding that many other airlines are choosing to pursue the same route when it comes to former generals.
Turkish Airline Pilot’s Association (TALPA) Vice President Mete Dane confirmed that there have been conflicts between captains and retired air force generals who began their civilian careers as co-pilots. He noted, however, that these problems should not be exaggerated. He explained that he retired from the army as a colonel and said: “I put everything [concerning my years in the military] aside and started this new job. After the necessary training, I worked as a co-pilot. I never had problems with low-ranking pilots. CRM training requires this attitude.” Saying that it is not right to criticize companies that do not employ former generals, Dane said: “Airlines have the power to and are responsible for providing security on their airplanes. Therefore, the companies’ decision should be respected.”
