In aviation safety, what are "threats" defined as?

In aviation safety, threats are defined as any condition or event that negatively affects performance. This includes a broad range of factors that can hinder the safe operation of an aircraft, impacting flight crew decision-making and overall safety.

Threats can originate from both external and internal sources. For example, external threats may include environmental factors such as adverse weather conditions or air traffic control issues, while internal threats can arise from crew fatigue or equipment malfunctions. Recognizing these threats is crucial for flight crews, as awareness allows for better risk management and mitigation strategies.

This comprehensive understanding of threats is essential for ensuring safety in aviation operations, distinguishing it from other options such as routine tasks or predictable patterns that do not inherently pose risks to performance.