Why Seasoned Pilots Can Skip Writing CRAFT for Every Instrument Clearance

As an airline pilot, the essence of flying is not just about handling the aircraft but also efficiently managing the numerous procedures that ensure safe and smooth operations. One common teaching tool for instrument clearance is the CRAFT mnemonic, representing Clearance limit, Route, Altitude, Frequencies, and Transponder. While CRAFT serves as an excellent foundation for understanding the structure of an instrument clearance, it's crucial to discuss its application in the context of professional aviation.

The Role of CRAFT in Learning

For new pilots, especially those in the initial stages of their instrument rating, CRAFT acts as training wheels. It provides a structured way to digest the components of an instrument flight rules (IFR) clearance, ensuring that nothing is missed. This method is invaluable for building confidence and comprehension in student pilots.

The Transition to Professionalism

However, as pilots progress in their careers, the reliance on physically writing down the word "CRAFT" before every clearance might not be necessary. It's important to recognize that while the structure of IFR clearances remains consistent, the actual content varies based on numerous factors such as weather, air traffic, and specific flight paths.

For experienced pilots, especially those operating in a professional airline environment, the focus shifts towards efficiency and fluency. Writing down "CRAFT" for every clearance can be seen as redundant. Instead, a thorough understanding and mental checklist of the components should suffice.

Perception Matters

It's also worth considering the perception it creates. Using CRAFT as a crutch in professional settings may unintentionally signal to others, including first officers and instructors, a lack of confidence or experience. While there's absolutely nothing wrong with ensuring accuracy in clearances, the goal for any professional pilot should be to exhibit proficiency that comes from understanding and experience rather than reliance on basic mnemonics.

Embracing Technology

Technological advancements, such as electronic flight bags (EFBs) like ForeFlight, offer tools that automatically outline instrument clearances for pilots. These tools are designed to streamline the process, allowing pilots to focus more on analyzing and understanding the clearance rather than on the mechanics of writing it down. Encouraging the use of such technologies can enhance both efficiency and accuracy.

Conclusion

The transition from using CRAFT as a learning tool to relying on one's knowledge and experience is a significant step in a pilot's professional development. Understanding the structure of IFR clearances is crucial, but how we apply this knowledge changes with experience. Our aim should be to encourage pilots to grow beyond the training wheels of CRAFT, embracing a more integrated and fluid approach to clearances. This growth not only marks professional development but also contributes to the overall safety and efficiency of flight operations.

Remember, the goal of flight training and professional development is to equip pilots with the skills and knowledge to operate effectively in any situation. As you progress in your career, let your understanding of procedures like instrument clearances evolve, reflecting your experience and professionalism.