Imposter Syndrome is something that many pilots experience throughout their careers, yet it often goes unnoticed, hidden behind closed flight deck doors.
Imposter Syndrome refers to a deep sense of self-doubt, where individuals are unable to internalise their achievements and constantly feel like a ‘fraud’, despite clear evidence of their competence. In aviation, where precision and expertise are non-negotiable, these feelings can be particularly draining.
Pilots are highly trained professionals who operate under immense pressure. The flight training process is demanding, and stepping into a first job as a commercial pilot can feel like entering a role that requires perfection at all times.
Even after years of flying, many pilots continue to experience self-doubt, especially during career transitions such as moving from First Officer to Captain or when flying in unfamiliar environments or aircraft. It’s not unusual for pilots to question their abilities, even after successfully completing complex training and performing their duties with competence.
The reality is that Imposter Syndrome is more common than most realise. Research indicates that around 70% of people experience Imposter Syndrome at some point in their careers (Sakulku & Alexander, 2011).
While these feelings may vary across industries, aviation—given its intense scrutiny and high stakes—can be particularly prone to fostering such self-doubt.
The culture of constant evaluation, from flight training to regular performance assessments, can amplify feelings of inadequacy, even when pilots perform well.
Some pilots may even attribute their success to factors like luck or external help rather than recognising their own skills and experience.
For instance, despite receiving positive feedback from colleagues or supervisors, some pilots still may feel as though their success is undeserved or that they’ve somehow ‘gotten lucky’ in their achievements.
This feeling can be particularly distressing when transitioning to a leadership role, like becoming a Captain.
The pressure to always perform at a high level can leave pilots questioning whether they truly deserve their position. These feelings often persist despite years of experience, and the more capable pilots become, the more their internal self-doubt grows.
The consequences of Imposter Syndrome go beyond emotional distress. It can have a significant impact on mental health, contributing to anxiety, depression, and burnout (Sakulku & Alexander, 2011).
This is a serious concern, particularly in aviation, where a pilot’s mental state can directly impact their performance and safety.
However, Imposter Syndrome is not an insurmountable obstacle. There are several strategies that pilots can use to manage these feelings and reduce their impact.
One of the most effective methods is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a psychological approach that helps individuals identify and challenge the negative thought patterns that fuel self-doubt.
For example, a pilot who believes, “I’m not qualified for this role,” can be encouraged to examine the evidence supporting or disproving this belief.
What specific achievements, such as completing training or receiving positive feedback, demonstrate that this belief is not true? Through CBT, pilots can learn to reframe their negative thoughts and replace them with more realistic, balanced perspectives.
Mindfulness is another useful tool. This helps individuals stay grounded in the present moment, preventing them from spiralling into negative self-criticism.
A simple mindfulness exercise might involve focusing on breathing, paying attention to each inhale and exhale, and gently bringing the mind back to the breath whenever distracting thoughts arise.
By practising mindfulness, pilots can reduce anxiety and stay focused on the task at hand, whether preparing for a flight or dealing with unexpected challenges during a flight.
It’s important to remember that these exercises don’t require a lot of time—just a few minutes each day can make a meaningful difference in mental clarity and emotional wellbeing.
In addition to cognitive strategies, taking care of oneself outside of flight hours is crucial for managing Imposter Syndrome. A routine that prioritises physical and mental health can help pilots stay resilient in the face of stress.
Regular exercise, adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and spending time with loved ones are all vital for maintaining overall wellbeing. Without proper selfcare, pilots risk burnout and may find it more difficult to manage stress and self-doubt.
Self-care goes beyond just physical health. Pilots should also engage in activities that allow them to relax and recharge, whether it’s reading, hobbies, or time spent with family and friends.
Establishing a healthy work-life balance is key to preventing the mental exhaustion that exacerbates Imposter Syndrome. It’s essential to remember that being a successful pilot isn’t just about flying an aircraft; it’s about maintaining your mental and emotional health along the way.
Ultimately, Imposter Syndrome is something that most pilots will encounter at some point, but it doesn’t have to define their careers or self-worth. By acknowledging these feelings and seeking support when needed, pilots can continue to perform at their best.
By challenging self-doubt, practising self-compassion, and engaging in healthy coping strategies, pilots can break free from the cycle of Imposter Syndrome and thrive in their careers.
References
• Curran, J. (2021), Self-Doubt to Self-Belief: A Fighter Pilot's Guide to Taming Imposter Syndrome. LinkedIn.
• Reich, D. A., & O’Hare, D. (2021), Imposter Syndrome in Aviation: Exploring Its Prevalence and Impact on Career Development. Journal of Aviation/Aerospace Education & Research, 29(3), 35-49.
• Sakulku, J., & Alexander, J. (2011), The Imposter Phenomenon. International Journal of Behavioral Science, 6(1), 75-97.