Definition
Two related learner errors in which attention is misallocated during a task. Fixation is the locking of attention onto one object, instrument, or task to the exclusion of other important information. Inattention is the failure to direct attention to something that does require it, allowing relevant cues to go unnoticed. Both reduce situational awareness and are common causes of learner errors during flight training.
Plain English
Fixation is when a student stares at one thing and stops noticing everything else. Inattention is when a student fails to look at something they should be looking at. Both lead to missed cues and mistakes.
Context Anchor
Encountered in flight training, cockpit workload discussions, instrument checking, traffic lookout, and instructor evaluations of student performance.
Derivation
Fixation comes from the Latin fixus, meaning fastened or fixed in place — the attention is stuck on one point. Inattention is simply 'not attending' — failing to direct the mind to something. Together they describe attention going to the wrong place, or staying in one place too long.
Why Pilots Care
These errors reduce situational awareness and can lead to altitude deviations, heading errors, or failure to respond to critical changes.
Analogy
It is like driving while staring only at the speedometer. Even if the speed is correct, you may miss a car braking ahead or the lane drifting under you.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as simple laziness or carelessness. A serious, motivated pilot can still fixate on one thing or miss important information when attention narrows or drifts.
Example Sentence 1
During the flare, the student fixated on the runway numbers and failed to notice the aircraft drifting left of centerline.
Example Sentence 2
Inattention to the engine instruments during cruise allowed a gradual loss of oil pressure to go unnoticed until an emergency developed.