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Estimated errors caused by distraction

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 7 of 16 on Human Factors. ACS element AM.I.L.K9 · difficulty: applied. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONFAA-H-8083-30B estimates that 15 percent of maintenance-related errors are caused by distractions. If a repair station records 200 maintenance-related errors in a year, about how many would be expected to result from distractions?

  1. A30 errors
  2. B15 errors, the same as the percentage
  3. C170 errors
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. 30 errors

  • A — correct Fifteen percent of 200 is 0.15 times 200, which equals 30 errors attributable to distraction.
  • B — incorrect The percentage must be applied to the total of 200; 15 percent of 200 is 30, not 15.
  • C — incorrect This is the number of errors not caused by distraction (200 minus 30); the question asks for the distraction-related portion.

BACKGROUND

The Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook - General (FAA-H-8083-30B) describes distraction as anything that disrupts a maintenance procedure, whether mental or physical, and whether it comes from the work environment or from the technician's own thoughts. It cites an estimate that 15 percent of maintenance-related errors are caused by distractions. Something as simple as a cell phone call or a new aircraft being pushed into the hangar can break concentration, and less visible personal matters can occupy the technician's mind while work is performed. Because a distraction can make a technician believe the work is further along than it is, the handbook stresses recognizing when attention is diverted and using detailed checklists.

STUDY TIP

Remember the 15 percent figure and be ready to apply it to a given total. Percentage questions on this chapter are simple multiplication once the right base number is chosen.

KEY POINTS

  • About 15 percent of maintenance-related errors are attributed to distraction.
  • Distractions can be mental or physical and can come from outside or inside the technician.
  • Use detailed checklists and recognize when attention is being diverted.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch14 "Distraction"
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MORE ON HUMAN FACTORS

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-30B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – General, 14 CFR part 43 and part 65. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.