Definition
The process of identifying hazards associated with a flight, assessing the level of risk each one presents, and taking deliberate actions to reduce that risk to an acceptable level before and during the flight.
Plain English
Spotting what could go wrong on a flight and doing something about it — changing the plan, adding a safeguard, or deciding not to go — so the chance of a bad outcome is lowered.
Context Anchor
Seen in aeronautical decision-making, preflight planning, personal minimums, and FAA WINGS safety discussions.
Derivation
From Latin mitigare, meaning to soften or make milder. In aviation, you are not eliminating risk (which is impossible) — you are softening it, bringing it down to a level you can safely manage.
Why Pilots Care
Proper risk mitigation directly reduces the likelihood of accidents by addressing factors such as weather, pilot fatigue, and mechanical issues before they become critical in flight.
Intuition Check
Risk mitigation does not mean removing all risk. It means reducing risk to a level that is reasonable for the flight, the pilot, the airplane, and the conditions.
Example Sentence 1
Faced with a strong crosswind at the destination, the pilot mitigated the risk by selecting an alternate airport with a runway better aligned to the wind.
Example Sentence 2
During the preflight briefing the instructor stressed risk mitigation for the night flight by confirming all required equipment was working and setting a personal minimum for ceiling height.