SkyDrill

Human error is manageable, not avoidable

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 11 of 16 on Human Factors. ACS element AM.I.L.K1 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONAccording to FAA-H-8083-30B, which statement best describes human error in aviation maintenance?

  1. AIt is not avoidable, but it is manageable.
  2. BIt is avoidable if training is thorough enough.
  3. CIt is neither avoidable nor manageable.
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. It is not avoidable, but it is manageable.

  • A — correct The handbook states plainly that human error is not avoidable but it is manageable, which is why training and safety inspections aim to make errors visible rather than pretend they can be eliminated.
  • B — incorrect The handbook rejects the idea that error can be avoided; training, risk assessments and inspections are meant to make errors visible and catch them before they cause damage, not to eliminate them.
  • C — incorrect The handbook agrees that error is unavoidable but insists it is manageable; that is the whole premise of a human factors program.

BACKGROUND

The Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook - General (FAA-H-8083-30B) defines human error as a human action with unintended consequences. Coupled with aviation maintenance, the negative consequences of error can be severe and often remain latent for a long time. The handbook therefore says that training, risk assessments and safety inspections should not be restricted to an attempt to avoid errors, but should make them visible and identify them before they produce damaging consequences. Its summary of the principle is that human error is not avoidable but it is manageable.

STUDY TIP

Memorize the exact phrasing: human error is not avoidable, but it is manageable. Questions on this principle usually hinge on that contrast.

KEY POINTS

  • Human error is a human action with unintended consequences.
  • The handbook says error is not avoidable but is manageable.
  • Safety programs aim to make errors visible, not to eliminate them.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch14 "Human Error"
Practice the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) test →Timed 60-question exam, by ACS area, or review your misses. Free.
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.