What effect does a pilot’s stress have on performance?

A pilot's stress significantly impacts performance, leading to an increased risk of errors. When under stress, pilots may experience heightened anxiety and distraction, which can impair their ability to process information accurately and make sound decisions. Stress can affect cognitive functions, such as problem-solving, decision-making, and concentration, which are critical during flight operations.

Under stress, a pilot might overlook important information, misinterpret data, or react inappropriately to situations, ultimately compromising safety. Thus, recognizing and managing stress is vital to ensure pilots can perform their duties effectively and maintain a high level of situational awareness.