An asymmetrical pilot resilience model – fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis

Pilots’ mental wellbeing has implications for airline business. The study draws on appraisal theory to test asymmetrical relationships between pilots’ cognitive flexibility, coping, and stress management, using fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). Regression analysis was performed to provide comparison and insights into these relationships. The study was conducted with professional pilots who engaged in short, medium, and long-haul flights with commercial airlines. The results show that certain cognitive flexibility factors account for coping strategy options. Multiple configurations of pilot personal factors and coping strategies can also be used to address stress management in terms of magnitude and frequency. The findings generated from these methods present nuances and have implications for the relevant literature and aviation practitioners. • This study approached airline management from a pilots’ mental wellbeing perspective as pilots’ mental health has implications for airline business and sustainability. • Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) was used to test asymmetrical relationships between pilots’ cognitive flexibility, coping, and stress management. • Regression analysis was also performed to provide comparison and insights into these relationships. • The study was conducted with professional pilots who engaged in short, medium, and long-haul flights with commercial airlines. • The results show that certain cognitive flexibility factors account for coping strategy options. Multiple configurations of pilot personal factors and coping strategies can also be used to address stress management in terms of magnitude and frequency. • The findings generated from these methods present nuances and have implications for the relevant literature and aviation practitioners.