Description

Interpersonal conflict within a group of aviation professionals potentially threatens operational safety of flight. Experience proves this even if the sponsoring organisation cautions the group to “function first as effective team members” while engaged in their project.

In the worst case, the outcome of unresolved or unreported conflict can be catastrophic failures by the work group or by the organisation. In the best case, interpersonal conflict can be anticipated and avoided, or quickly resolved using the framework of group dynamics theory — before escalating to the point of harm.

Courses in group dynamics — drawing expertise from fields like applied psychology and aviation human factors — have helped since the late 1990s to educate European executive managers, group leaders and team members. Typical course content clarifies the potential risk from interpersonal conflict, including preventive measures and process documentation.