Computerised pilot assessments (often also referred to as 'Computerised Pilot Aptitude Tests') are those assessments designed to evaluate the competencies required of a professional pilot and typically take the form of a series of separate tests (known as a 'Test Battery') undertaken either on-site at a facility, or remotely using a desktop or laptop computer.

These assessments differ from other types of aptitude tests used in other industries, typically aiming to evaluate competencies (or skills) such as Multi-Tasking, Motor Skills, Reaction Time, Spatial Awareness and Memory Recall.

Evaluation of the above competencies is often achieved using a variety of different methods and mechanisms - for example, memory recall may be assessed with a task to memorise and recall information displayed on screen, whereas multi-tasking may be evaluated by asking the candidate to perform multiple concurrent tasks using a keyboard and mouse, or motor skills may be appraised by asking the candidate to center a ball within a targeted area using a joystick.

In some cases, the candidate may be required to undertake two attempts of each test, or to undergo a Verification Test some time after completing their original pilot assessment.

On completion of assessment, a candidate's score may be compared to that of other candidates who have previously undertaken the assessment (known as Norm-Referencing) or, their scoring may be assessed against a defined criteria or pass mark (known as Criterion-Referencing).

Pilot Flight Academy incorporate a computerised pilot assessment produced by Aon (Cut-E) in to their selection process.

This pilot assessment is undertaken remotely, completed by the applicant in their web browser in the comfort of their own home.

In particular, this assessment is constructed of a Test Battery which can include modules referred to as Complex Control, Ability to Concentrate, Sense of Direction and Deductive Reasoning amongst others.

Shown below are depictions of those modules incorporated in to Aon (Cut-E) pilot assessments:

To prepare effectively for this part of the Pilot Flight Academy selection process, it is recommended to both familiarise yourself with the methods and mechanisms employed, and to improve those competencies which are evaluated, in the Aon (Cut-E) computerised pilot assessment.

Our software provides realistic simulations of this assessment contained within a section dedicated to Pilot Flight Academy, accompanied by Explainer Videos, Visual Walkthroughs as well as the provision of detailed feedback regarding your Performance, and how it compares with other applicants.

To further your preparation, it is also recommended to create a Preparation Strategy specific to this assessment using the CoPilot Wizard and establish Targets to be achieved prior to undertaking evaluation.

This stage of the selection process requires an applicant to record a series of responses to a collection of pre-determined questions, which may be selected at random from a larger bank of questions or specifically selected by the flight training organisation for their pilot assessment.

Recording of video presentations is often completed using a smartphone or a laptop computer, as both incorporate a front-facing cameras, with the video presentations uploaded and stored in a cloud for later evaluation.

Video presentations facilitate the evaluation of a variety of skills and qualities of an applicant, providing a more comprehensive assessment beyond that offered by a traditional test or interview.

In particular, video presentations can be used to assess the following:

• Communication Skills
• When asked to record a short video introduction or presentation, the applicant's communication abilities, such as their speaking skills, clarity of expression and ability to convey information clearly may be assessed.
• Problem Solving
• When given a hypothetical problem to address in a video, the applicant's ability to analyse a situation, to consider multiple perspectives and propose solutions may be assessed.
• Leadership Qualities
• Video presentations may provide insights into an applicant's leadership potential, showcasing their ability to inspire, motivate and guide others.
• Aviation Knowledge
• Asking an applicant to discuss world affairs which affect the aviation industry may enable evaluation of the applicant's knowledge of the aviation industry, as well motivation and interest.
• Personality and Soft Skills
• The format of a video presentation may provide insight into the applicant's personality, interpersonal skills and overall suitability for professional flight training.

Questions that may be asked at the video presentation stage which can help an applicant to demonstrate their competencies in the above areas can include:

When preparing to embark on the video presentation stage of the Pilot Flight Academy selection process, consider the following tips to ready yourself:

• Prepare an outline or script to ensure your video presentation is structured and covers all the key points you want to convey.
• Record yourself delivering practice video presentations and review the footage, ensuring that you focus on your vocal clarity, pace, body language, and eye contact to come across as confident and engaging.
• While the content is the most important aspect, consider your attire and the environment in which the video presentation is going to be recorded.
• Practice recording video presentations multiple times, and in front of others if possible, to ensure you are comfortable and can deliver it seamlessly.

In the debrief and feedback stage of the selection process, the candidate typically receives comprehensive feedback on how they performed at each prior stage.

Debriefing can often be undertaken by a member of the selection team, a psychologist or a senior flight instructor, with feedback provided regarding candidate strengths, areas for improvement and how they demonstrated those key competencies required for pilot training.

Receipt of feedback from a rigorous selection process ensures that candidates gain valuable insights and guidance regarding their performance, enabling them to make informed decisions about their aviation career path and to better prepare for the intensive flight training program that they may undertake.

Additionally, this stage also allows for the candidate to ask questions, seek clarification and engage in discussion with those individuals responsible for the selection process, and also provides opportunity for the candidate to provide feedback or raise concerns they may have about the selection process.