The Effects of Student Pilots’ Learning Satisfaction and Instructor Relationships on Competitiveness and Flight Proficiency

This study examines the effects of student pilots’ learning satisfaction and relationships with flight instructors on competitiveness and flight proficiency. As demand for highly skilled pilots increases, psychological and interpersonal aspects of pilot training have gained importance. A quantitative survey was conducted with 150 student pilots at different training stages. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 through factor analysis, reliability testing, ANOVA, correlation, and multiple regression analyses. The results show that learning satisfaction and instructor relationships positively influence competitiveness. Competitiveness, in turn, has a significant positive effect on flight proficiency, indicating a mediating role. Student pilots with more than 200 flight hours and those in advanced training demonstrated higher competitiveness and proficiency. These findings support a learner-centered and relationship-based approach to pilot education.