FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATM)Human Factors and CRMHard
During takeoff roll, a first officer notices the captain has failed to reduce power at the flap-limiting airspeed and states, 'Captain, we're above flap speed.' The captain does not respond or adjust. Consistent with the two-challenge rule used in CRM training, what should the first officer do next?
- AWait until the post-flight debrief to raise the issue formally with the captain
- BRestate the concern more firmly a second time, and if there is still no response, take appropriate corrective action such as assuming control of the aircraft
- CContact ATC immediately to report the captain's noncompliance with aircraft limitations
- DSay nothing further, since the concern was already voiced once and further comment could undermine authority
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Restate the concern more firmly a second time, and if there is still no response, take appropriate corrective action such as assuming control of the aircraft
The two-challenge rule directs a crewmember to voice a safety concern a second time, more assertively, if the first callout is not acknowledged; if there is still no response, the crewmember is empowered—and expected—to take positive action, including assuming control if the safety of flight is jeopardized.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Debriefing after the flight does nothing to address an immediate, ongoing safety hazard.
- C. ATC has no authority over internal cockpit limitations issues; this bypasses proper CRM escalation.
- D. Failing to escalate could allow a hazardous condition (exceeding flap limits) to continue unchecked.
Two-Challenge Rule
A CRM assertiveness protocol requiring a crewmember to restate a safety concern a second time if unacknowledged, and to take direct corrective action if the concern is still ignored.
- First callout states the concern clearly
- Second callout is more assertive if no response
- Empowers taking control or corrective action if still unaddressed
- Designed to break down excessive authority gradients
Memory trick: Say it twice, then act — safety can't wait for a third try