Pilot Selection in the Norwegian Air Force: A Validation and Meta-Analysis of the Test Battery

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the test battery currently used for pilot selection to the Norwegian Air Force. Selection is currently based on a standard battery of 20 different psychological tests as well as on medical tests and on an interview by a licensed psychologist. First, two-factor analyses were conducted to examine the relation between the tests in the battery. Then, a correlation study was conducted to evaluate the predictive validity of the tests against two criteria of pilot performance collected during the basic training period. Finally, a small-scale meta-analysis of previous validation studies in Norway was conducted. The best predictors of success in training, based on the meta-analysis, were Instrument Comprehension (r = .29), Mechanical Principles (r = .23), and Aviation Information (r = .22)