What should a pilot do when faced with hazardous thoughts?

Acknowledging and addressing hazardous thoughts is crucial for a pilot's safety and well-being. By recognizing these thoughts, a pilot can take proactive steps to mitigate their effects, which can lead to more effective decision-making in critical situations. Addressing hazardous thoughts involves understanding their source and impact, seeking support or professional help if needed, or utilizing techniques like mindfulness to manage them. This approach not only helps in maintaining focus on flying responsibilities but also enhances overall situational awareness and emotional resilience.

In contrast, ignoring the thoughts may lead to an accumulation of stress or distraction that can impair performance. Conveying them to fellow pilots could provide some support, but simply sharing thoughts without addressing them may not lead to effective resolution. Allowing hazardous thoughts to resolve on their own can be risky, as they may persist and negatively influence the pilot's performance or decision-making without intervention. Therefore, the most productive approach is to recognize and actively address these thoughts to ensure safety and effectiveness while flying.