Definition
In the Perceive, Process, Perform (3P) decision-making model, consequences are the specific outcomes -- favorable or unfavorable -- that could result from a hazard if the pilot does not act to mitigate it. Identifying consequences is part of the Process step, where the pilot evaluates how a perceived hazard could affect the safety of the flight.
Plain English
What could actually happen -- good or bad -- because of a hazard you've spotted. In the 3P model, you stop and ask, 'If I don't do something about this, what's the likely outcome?'
Context Anchor
Used in the Perceive, Process, Perform model when a pilot identifies a situation, thinks through what it could lead to, and then chooses an action.
Derivation
From Latin consequi, 'to follow after.' A consequence is literally what follows from something else. In the 3P model, it's what follows from a hazard if you leave it unaddressed.
Why Pilots Care
Evaluating consequences lets pilots choose actions that keep the flight safe instead of creating new problems.
Intuition Check
Consequences does not only mean punishment or something bad. Here it means the possible results that follow from a situation or choice, whether they are good, bad, or neutral.
Example Sentence 1
After perceiving a line of building cumulus along the route, the pilot considered the consequences -- turbulence, possible icing, and a longer-than-planned diversion -- before choosing to deviate south.
Example Sentence 2
Continuing with a known electrical issue can lead to serious consequences later in the flight.