ASRS June 2026 – Expect the Unexpected

Shared through the EASA Air Operations Community to promote safety.

ASRS June 2026 – Expect the Unexpected

This month, NASA ASRS CALLBACK presents a selection of reports highlighting unexpected events encountered during different phases of flight. As you review these cases, reflect on the reporters’ situational awareness, as well as their thoughts, actions, and emotional responses.

Quote: “Expect the unexpected” is blunt philosophy that aviation both teaches and demands. It is also sound wisdom that larger than life aviators have heralded to all who fly since the dawn of aviation itself.
 

ASRS CALLBACK Issue 557 - June 2026, Expect the Unexpected

In an aircraft, the element of surprise can briefly degrade one’s decision and reaction times. If an unexpected event occurs, pilots and crews must be ready and equipped to resolve the issue and conclude the situation. Training and experience hammer home that point, which is also fundamental in threat and error management. A quote often credited to Gene Cernan, Apollo 17 commander and most recent human to have walked on the moon, captures the philosophy and its importance. “Prepare for the unknown, unexpected, and inconceivable…after 50 years of flying I’m still learning every time I fly.”