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The Dragon in the Cockpit

How Western Aviation Concepts Conflict with Chinese Value Systems

Allen Batteau author Hung Sying Jing author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:28th Jan '15

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

The Dragon in the Cockpit cover

The purpose of The Dragon in the Cockpit is to enhance the mutual understanding between Western aviation human-factors practitioners and the Chinese aviation community by describing some of the fundamental Chinese cultural characteristics pertinent to the field of flight safety. China’s demand for air transportation is widely expected to increase further, and the Chinese aviation community are now also designing their own commercial aircraft, the COMAC C-919. Consequently, the interactions in the air between the West and China are anticipated to become far more extensive and dynamic. However, due to the multi-faceted nature of Chinese culture, it is sometimes difficult for Westerners to understand Chinese thought and ways, sometimes to the detriment of aviation safety. This book provides crucial insights into Chinese culture and how it manifests itself during flight operations, as well as highlighting ways in which Western technology and Chinese culture clash within the cockpit. Science and technology studies (STS) have demonstrated that sophisticated technologies embed cultural assumptions, usually in subtle ways. These cultural assumptions 'bite back' when the technology is used in an unfamiliar cultural context. By creating the insider’s perspective on the cultural/technological assumptions of the world’s fastest growing industrial economy, this book seeks to minimize the accidents and damage resulting from technological/cultural misunderstandings and misperceptions.

"This book could not be more timely as aviation becomes increasingly international and, with it, the need for professionals to understand cultural forces and how they can affect aviation safety. Jing and Batteau provide superb insights into eastern and western cultural influences, and how Confucian perspectives differ from those of the West. This book would be a welcome addition to anyone with an interest in cultural differences, aviation safety, and human factors."

—Barry Strauch, Strauch Associates, LLC, USA

"In The Dragon in the Cockpit, Jing and Batteau examine the most important differences between the Chinese and Western cultures and value systems in flight operation, especially since China is becoming one of the most prominent forces in commercial aviation. Can such vastly different perspectives be overcome by rigorous training, strong management, professionalism, and a strong cooperative culture? Jing and Batteau give you their insights in this magnificent book!"

—Kay Yong, Chairman (retired), Aviation Safety Council, Taiwan, ROC

ISBN: 9781472410306

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 564g

232 pages