By Samuel Allen, C.M., ACE
Airport Operations Manager
Construction sites are inherently hazardous situations, but physical risks are only part of the safety equation. Mindset plays an equally important role. In aviation, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) identifies five “hazardous attitudes” that impair judgment and increase risk: anti-authority, impulsivity, invulnerability, macho, and resignation. Although developed for pilot training as described specifically in the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK), these attitudes apply directly to airfield construction.
This safety share focuses on anti-authority.
The FAA describes anti-authority as “…found in people who do not like anyone telling them what to do. In a sense, they are saying, ‘no one can tell me what to do.’ They may be resentful of having someone tell them what to do or may regard rules, regulations, and procedures as silly or unnecessary. However, it is always your prerogative to question authority if you feel it is in error”.
There is an important distinction between questioning a rule professionally and dismissing it outright. Aviation allows for thoughtful challenge when something appears unsafe or incorrect. Anti-authority, however, often rejects oversight reflexively rather than constructively leading to potential confrontation and further safety issues.
Airports, especially those supporting commercial flight operations, are highly regulated environments. Safety plans, phasing requirements, FAA standards, and airport rules exist to protect aircraft operations, workers, and the traveling public.
When anti-authority attitudes surface among designers, managers, or trades, the consequences escalate quickly. Noncompliance, poor coordination, or disregard for procedures can create operational hazards in an already unforgiving environment. Unlike many construction settings, airfield projects occur near active aircraft operations where margins for error can often be extremely tight.
The FAA’s stated antidote to anti-authority sounds simple: “Follow the rules. They are usually right.” While basic, the principle behind it is significant and complex. Aviation regulations are typically written in response to past incidents and accidents. They exist because lessons were learned, often at high human and property-loss cost.
Addressing anti-authority attitudes on the airfield requires more than enforcement. It requires perspective. Airport Operations professionals strive to build understanding, not just compliance. When individuals recognize that rules are in place to protect lives, equipment, and the integrity of the airport system, resistance often gives way to cooperation.
In airfield construction, independence and a lone-wolf mentality do not enhance safety, coordination and teamwork do. A strong safety culture depends not only on technical competence, but also on attitudes that respect the systems designed to keep everyone safe.