Aircraft Accident Investigation: Learning from Human and Organizational Factors

Structured into twelve chapters, the book introduces core concepts of accident investigation and human factors, each reinforced by the detailed analysis of a major airline accident case study from British Airways Flight 38 to the Air Canada Flight 143 (Gimli Glider). The integration of case-based learning with theoretical discussion provides readers with both scholarly depth and operational relevance. Of particular note are the dedicated sections at the end of each chapter designed for student pilots, which distill key lessons into practical takeaways for pilot training.

The book’s dual function as a reference for aviation professionals and as a textbook for flight training organizations underscores its significance. This review highlights the book’s strengths, including its accessibility, structured pedagogy, and applied perspective, while also noting areas for further scholarly integration. Overall, the book makes a timely and valuable contribution to the literature on human and organizational factors in aviation safety.

In its third edition, Aircraft Accident Investigation: Learning from Human and Organizational Factors by Bilal Kilic provides a timely and comprehensive contribution to the field of aviation safety. The book explores how human performance, organizational structures, and cultural influences intersect to shape the outcomes of aviation accidents and investigations. Written from the dual perspective of an airline captain and academic researcher, the work bridges theory and practice, making it accessible to both professionals and scholars. Structured into twelve chapters, the book follows a consistent approach: each chapter introduces a central theoretical concept in aircraft accident investigation and human factors, and complements it with the detailed review of a selected airline accident case. This dual perspective enriches the reader’s understanding of how abstract principles manifest in real-world aviation scenarios. Furthermore, each chapter concludes with a dedicated section aimed at ab-initio pilots, highlighting the most critical lessons and key factors that should be carried forward into their professional development. The book is available across 20 Amazon marketplaces, making it easily accessible to readers worldwide.

The accidents covered in the book are as follows:

1. British Airways Flight 38
2. Birgenair Flight 301
3. Korean Air Flight 801
4. Helios Airways Flight 552
5. Avianca Flight 052
6. Asiana Airlines Flight 214
7. Qantas Flight 32
8. Air France Flight 447
9. Air Florida Flight 90
10. Air France Flight 358
11. Colgan Air Flight 3407
12. Air Canada Flight 143