Culture and Communication in the Philippine Aviation Industry

This study aims to characterize the communication patterns of Filipino pilots in the cockpit and assess its adherence to CRM principles of assertiveness, openness, conflict resolution, and communication effectiveness. A survey was administered to 88 participants who are mostly captains and first officers. Filipino captains and first officers generally have the same attitude that corresponds to the principles learned in CRM training on communication and coordination. However, a detailed comparison of the groups' responses showed significant differences in terms of assertiveness, openness, and communication effectiveness. Captains are more articulate in expressing concerns than first officers. However, in terms dealing with crewmembers, first officers are more cautious in phrasing things.