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Flight Category:
VFR
Pressure:
29.76 inHg
Temperature:
18.4 °C
Visibility:
10+ Mi
Wind:
4.6 MPH (4 KT)

DECIDE Checklist

DECIDE Checklist

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Applying the Enhanced DECIDE Checklist

This enhanced DECIDE model expands the classic aviation decision-making framework into six focused elements—Detect, Evaluate, Consider, Integrate, Decide, Execute & Reassess—to help pilots structure in-flight risk management. Each step is paired with concrete cockpit applications you can practice on your next flight.

Detect

Detect means maintaining continuous, methodical vigilance for anything that can affect your flight. It starts long before you taxi and never stops until you’ve shut down.

What it is:

  • A systematic scan of every flight domain: external (weather cells, traffic, terrain), internal (fuel state, systems status, workload), and personal (IMSAFE).
  • Rapid recognition of change or deviation: unexpected cloud buildup, ATC frequency change, cabin door unlocked light, rising workload.

In-flight application:

  • Cross-check instruments and glance outside every 20–30 seconds; note any anomalies.
  • Use PAVE (Pilot, Aircraft, enVironment, External pressures) on the go: mentally tick off each corner of PAVE at level-off and at cruise.
  • Log emerging hazards on your kneeboard—e.g., “Turb at FL080,” “MP outage,” “FUEL LOF soon.”

Evaluate

Once a hazard is detected, quickly assess its severity and probability to gauge how much of a threat it poses to your safety margins.

What it is:

  • A two-dimensional risk assessment:
    1. Severity (how big an upset or injury could be)
    2. Likelihood (how probable is that outcome)
  • Translate that into a simple risk score (low, medium, high).

In-flight application:

  • Spot moderate chop ahead? Rate it “medium” if it causes altitude excursions under 100 ft, “high” if you’re straining harness straps.
  • Evaluate fuel state versus planned diversion (remaining endurance vs. alternate field distance).
  • Consider time pressure: how long until daylight ends, ETA to weather, or your personal alertness dips.

Consider

With a clear picture of risks, brainstorm all viable courses of action—don’t lock onto the first fix.

What it is:

  • Generating at least three workable mitigations or alternatives.
  • Engaging your crew or passengers: gather any additional input or local knowledge.

In-flight application:

  • If a line of thunderstorms crops up, list options:
    1. Change altitude 3,000 ft lower
    2. Deviate laterally around cells
    3. Request vector to an alternate route
  • If a minor oil leak appears, consider: returning to departure, landing at closest airport, or continuing with an hour-limit flight plan.
  • Write your options on a scratchpad to keep them in view.

Integrate

Merge your chosen mitigations into a coherent flight plan—balance them against performance, regulations, and passenger needs.

What it is:

  • Aligning your proposed actions with aircraft limits (weight & balance, climb/descent performance).
  • Factoring external constraints: airspace, fuel requirements, approach minima.
  • Sequencing tasks into a logical flow.

In-flight application:

  • Diverting around weather? Compute new heading, distance, fuel burn, and ETA.
  • Integrate ATC clearance: request IFR amendment, amend flight plan in the GPS, file a VFR flight plan if switching.
  • Update your mental and paper checklist: new altitudes, frequencies, approach brief.

Decide

Select the single best integrated plan and commit to it—then communicate promptly.

What it is:

  • A clear yes/no commitment to one course of action.
  • Strong verbal call-out: “I’m diverting to MXY. Heading 180, squawk 1200, time enroute 12 min.”

In-flight application:

  • Once you pick your maneuver, brief your passengers (“We’ll climb to FL100 and shift course 15° right to avoid buildups.”).
  • Tell ATC, transcribe the clearance, set radios and autopilot/modes.
  • A decision is only good if it’s shared and executed without hesitation.

Execute & Reassess

Put your decision into action, then monitor outcomes. If conditions change, loop back through Detect–Evaluate and repeat.

What it is:

  • Flawless task execution: precise control inputs, checklist discipline, clear call-outs.
  • Continuous feedback loop: verify your plan’s effect on safety and schedule.

In-flight application:

  • After you initiate a descent, check vertical speed vs. Flight Mgmt Computer profile and crosscheck altimeter.
  • In turbulence, reconfirm seat-belt signs, reinforce secure items, watch oil and engine gauges.
  • Five minutes after a diversion, run another PAVE scan—if a new hazard emerges, restart DECIDE.

By working each element—Detect, Evaluate, Consider, Integrate, Decide, Execute & Reassess—you’ll build a dynamic, self-correcting decision cycle that keeps you well ahead of emerging hazards. Use this model in your cockpit to turn complexity into clarity and elevate safety on every flight.

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