How would you handle conflicting instructions from different supervisors on a flight?

How would you handle conflicting instructions from different supervisors on a flight?

• A. Stop the flight and call security.
• B. Clarify, follow the chain of command, escalate if needed, communicate clearly.
• C. Choose one supervisor's instruction and disregard others.
• D. Ask a fellow crew member unrelated supervisor.

Answer: (B)

When instructions from multiple supervisors conflict, the priority is to resolve it through clear communication and the established chain of command. Start by clarifying exactly what each instruction means and how it impacts safety and procedure, so there’s no misinterpretation. Then follow the proper hierarchy, applying the instruction that has the appropriate authority, and escalate to a higher supervisor or the PIC if the disagreement can’t be settled at the current level. Throughout, communicate your understanding and actions clearly to everyone involved to maintain safety and prevent confusion. Stopping the flight and calling security is not the standard response to a disagreement unless there is an immediate safety or security threat. Choosing one supervisor’s instruction while disregarding others bypasses proper authority and can create risk. Asking a fellow crew member who isn’t the appropriate supervisor bypasses the proper channels and can lead to incorrect or unsafe decisions.

When instructions from multiple supervisors conflict, the priority is to resolve it through clear communication and the established chain of command. Start by clarifying exactly what each instruction means and how it impacts safety and procedure, so there’s no misinterpretation. Then follow the proper hierarchy, applying the instruction that has the appropriate authority, and escalate to a higher supervisor or the PIC if the disagreement can’t be settled at the current level. Throughout, communicate your understanding and actions clearly to everyone involved to maintain safety and prevent confusion.

Stopping the flight and calling security is not the standard response to a disagreement unless there is an immediate safety or security threat. Choosing one supervisor’s instruction while disregarding others bypasses proper authority and can create risk. Asking a fellow crew member who isn’t the appropriate supervisor bypasses the proper channels and can lead to incorrect or unsafe decisions.