NAVIGATING AVIATION
Aviation is one of the most enjoyable, exciting and rewarding professional careers and recreational activities on the planet, but there is no denying it can also be extremely challenging and stressful.
Attempting to navigate the regulatory environment, complex procedures, deep technical knowledge requirements and organisational culture can sometimes be overwhelming and contribute significantly to our individual stress levels – especially when things go wrong.
Navigating Aviation was founded to meet the specific needs of the aviation community.
Mental health challenges that can potentially develop as a result of these stressors attract a unique stigma and potential consequences in the aviation industry. There is a tendency amongst aviators to avoid speaking up for fear of losing their medical certificate, and with it the right to fly. To make matters worse, stoicism and a “she’ll be right” attitude is often far more prevalent in the aviation industry and can act as a significant barrier to seeking help when it is needed.
The period following an accident or serious incident can be particularly stressful for those involved. All too often it is left to the individual, business owner or family member to navigate one of the most stressful times in their life without proper support, while they are experiencing a life changing event or grieving the loss of a loved one.
Larger aviation companies and aircrew unions typically provide funded assistance programs to their employees and members, however there is currently no industry-backed support structure for general, recreational and sport aviation in Australia. Whether you're a pilot, engineer, support crew, business owner or a family member of someone in the aviation industry, it is highly likely that at some stage there will be a need for you to access professional support.