COMPASS
IAP Selection Services
Information
Technical specifications of COMPASS and the IAP Selection Process:
The selection system COMPASS consists of three Parts which can run as a series of modules
but we suggest that they are run as three parts in order to provide the candidate with a break
between the Parts.
The COMPASS tests are all done on a PC and the results are instantly available after the test
has been completed and the data has been submitted to the IAP Selection Server for analysis.
Our COMPASS system is developed to select ab-initio candidate pilots. This version is mainly
used by FTO’s. We also have Advanced-COMPASS which is to select already trained pilots.
This version is used by Airlines and TRTO’s.
The COMPASS tests measures the following competence’s:
COMPASS Part 1 Advanced-COMPASS Part 1
Eye-hand-foot coordination Complex Control Task (fly F/D etc)
Technical comprehension (physics questions) ATPL theoretical questions on jet aircraft and
operation
Short memory Short memory
Mental arithmetic Mental arithmetic
Spatial Orientation Spatial Orientation
Multi Tasking Multi Tasking
COMPASS or Advanced-COMPASS Part 2
- English for aviation
- Verbal Reasoning
COMPASS and Advanced-COMPASS Part 3 (CPP)
- Personality Profile (CPP). This looks at the following competences:
o Resilience
o Stress tolerance
o Impulse control
o Ambition
o Accuracy
o Perseverance
o Autonomy
o Persuasiveness
o Dominance
o Assertiveness
o Openness
o Need for variation
o Teamwork
o Altruism
o Empathy
This Checklist Personal Profile tool has been developed by the Institute of Aviation
psychology
CPP (Checklist Profession Profile):
CPP is a personality questionnaire designed to measure a broad range of personality traits, that
are important in the function of airline pilot. The questionnaire also comes with an automatically
generated report, in which these traits are combined to form relevant competencies, such as
stability, flexibility, self discipline, team orientation, independence, leadership, assertiveness and
more. Several norm-groups already exist, ranging from ages 16 to 30 years and from different
nationalities. The questionnaire is now offered in three languages, Dutch, English and Czech.
Availability of test results.
The results of the above tests are instantly available after the candidate has completed the
tests and the data has been uploaded to the Selection Server. Only those people issued with a
special access code to see the results can look at the summary results and print the detailed
reports.
All tests are in English.
The systems used to perform the tests can be installed and administered anywhere in the world,
provided there is internet access. The management/administration of running the tests does not
require any special training and is minimal in terms of time involvement.
The duration of the tests, including some breaks, is 4 hours maximum. This means that on one
PC you can normally do two (2) persons per day.
Selection efficiency
In order to minimize the manpower and time involved in the selection, it is our recommendation
to do COMPASS Part 1, which will take 1 ½ hour. Based on the result the candidate will be
allowed to advance to Part 2 and 3. If the aptitude results of COMPASS Part 1 are below a
certain threshold it has no value to continue with the selection.
Retake of tests
In IAP, we allow candidates failing our threshold for Part 1 to re-take the test after 3 months.
They can only do this one (1) time. The re-take of Part 3 (CPP) can only be done after one (1)
year.
Training and evaluation
IAP can provide initial training for the following functions of client:
1. Train the “test coach” on how to administer the tests and various operational functions of
the system. This training can be done in IAP’s headquarters in The Netherlands, or at
the client’s location (if the potential business volume supports such action) after the PC’s
and the systems are installed.
2. Train the management responsible for the interpretation of the reports.
The above mentioned training will be free of charge, but on-site training will be a function of
the potential business agreed between client and IAP.
In addition IAP will be constantly available for assistance and guidance in the area of
interpretation and can, if required, perform a quality control function on the system.
Equipment and tools
The PC’s, joystick and pedals for these tests are to be obtained by client and in accordance to
the IAP specifications.
The software will be made available at no additional fee as we charge per test.
COMPASS SCORE REPORT EXAMPLE
Personal Details:
Candidate ID: 45670 Test date: 04-12-2002
Forename :A
Surname : Pilot
Date of birth : 11-03-1981
Test results:
CONTROL 6
SLALOM 7
MEMORY 7
MATHEMATICS 6
ORIENTATION 7
TASKMANAGER 6
Total Score: 39
(Score 1 = low and 7 = high score)
Advanced-COMPASS SCORE REPORT
Personal Details:
Candidate ID: 45670 Test date: 04-12-2002
Forename :A
Surname : Pilot
Date of birth : 11-03-1981
Test results:
CCT 6
PR. KNOW TEST 7
MEMORY 7
MATHEMATICS 6
ORIENTATION 7
TASKMANAGER 6
Total Score: 39
(Score 1 = low and 7 = high score)
CPP (Checklist Professional Profile)
Sure name Mister E. Pilot
First name Edward
Date of birth 01-01-1985
Age 23
Address Runway 6
City Amsterdam
Country The Netherlands
Date of assessment 10-10-2008
Purpose Personality assessment in relation to pilot selection
Content A. Personality profile
B. Overview
C. Conclusion and advice
D. Core competency
E. Primary Competencies
F. Personal competences
G. Relational competencies
This report is based on the results of the IAP Checklist Professional Profile © and describes a number of
personality traits and competencies, which can be considered as relevant for the aviation industry, especially for the
selection and coaching of pilots. The development of the personality is a dynamic process. Therefore, this report will
be valid for the period of one year. It can only be used for selection and coaching of applicants and employees in
the aviation industry and cannot be seen as a replacement of a complete assessment centre.
A. Personality profile
The Personality profile shows the candidate’s results on the 15 personality traits, which are measured by
the CPP. The scores are obtained by comparing the candidate’s outcomes to a norm group consisting of
other applicants. Thus, these results are not absolute and only indicative in relation to the relevant norm.
The following indications can be used for the interpretation of the test outcomes.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
very low low below low average high above high very high
average average average average
The highlighted areas indicate an unacceptable (orange) and an undesirable (green) range for the
personality traits regarding one’s suitability for the function of pilot. In case of disparity between the advice
and tendencies on this personality profile, it is advisable to contact a psychologist for counsel.
Personality profile
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Resilience
Stress tolerance
Impulse control
Ambition
Accuracy
Perseverance
Dominance
Persuasiveness
Assertiveness
Teamwork
Helpfulness
Empathy
Autonomy
Openness
Need for variation
B. Overview
Core competency
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
1 Personal stability
Primary competencies
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
2 Conscientiousness
3 Leadership
Personal competencies Potential misbalance
4 Executive orientation None
5 Team orientation Tendency to operate too independently
6 Decision making process None
7 Communication Insensitivity
Relational competencies
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
8 Service orientation
9 Sociability
C. Conclusion and advice
The Checklist Professional Profile and this automated report are designed to assist in regard to selection
and coaching of flight training candidates. The aim of this report and the automatically formulated advice
is to minimize the risk of early dropout, based on findings in the personality profile.
The departure point of the conclusions is the idea, that certain competencies, which are required in the
function of pilot, will only be able to develop if certain relevant aspects of the personality are found
present. Meaning that if certain personality traits are not present, the possibility of fully developing the
relevant competency will proof very difficult.
Another assumption is the fact that, in regard to adequate pilot training and functioning, some
competencies are essential (these are the core- and primary competencies), while other competencies
are important but may not be crucial (this is the case with the personal- and relational competencies).
Therefore, the automatically generated advice concerning a candidates suitability is only based on
findings regarding the outcomes of the core competencies, which are indispensable.
Conclusion
Comparison of the test responses to the relevant norm group and analysis and interpretation of the
outcomes of the Checklist Professional Profile lead to the following ascertainment:
Lack of concern for task in regard to the personal competency Executive orientation
Lack of openness and need for variation in regard to the relational competency Sociability
Advice
In the matter of the candidateship of Edward Pilot for the function of pilot and based on the outcomes
regarding the core- and primary competencies, the personality profile gives proof of no serious concerns.
D. Core competency
1. Personal stability
The core competence Personal stability can be considered as the single most crucial factor in the function
of pilots for several reasons. First of all, pilots have to be able to make complex decisions based on a
broad spectrum of aspects (e.g. safety, efficiency, cost, customer satisfaction) without hesitation or doubt.
Second, the notion that each incorrect decision may have catastrophic outcomes creates a large amount
of pressure, aside from the stress that a pilot is already under during flight. Third, pilots usually operate
under a great deal of mental and physical strain because of their irregular schedule and ever changing
circumstances. Personal stability makes it possible for pilots to cope with these aspects in a calm, stable
and confident way.
Personal Stability
Personal stability refers to a calm, stable and confident state of mind. A stable person is self-secure, does
not become upset easily and copes well with pressure.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
The ability to overcome set backs (resilience), the capacity to function in an effective way when under
pressure (stress tolerance) and the predisposition to operate in a calm and composed manner (impulse
control) all characterize a stable person. On the other hand, a combination of low resilience, low stress
tolerance and impulsiveness points to a vulnerable and less stable type of personality that is more prone
to emotional and inconsistent reaction patterns in times of stress. The competency Personal stability is
consequently obtained by calculating the mean score for the personality traits resilience, stress tolerance
and impulse control.
1a. Resilience
Resilience indicates the emotional stability and the ability to overcome setbacks. A high score on
resilience characterizes a level-headed and optimistic personality.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
1b. Stress tolerance
Stress tolerance measures mental stability, especially the ability to adequately cope with stressful
situations in order to maintain a constant and effective performance.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
1c. Impulse control
Impulse control indicates the will and the power to inhibit one’s direct impulses, allowing them time and
space to reflect and come to well thought out and logical conclusions and behaviour.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
E. Primary competencies
2. Conscientiousness
The first primary competency Conscientiousness is applicable to a person who shows the will, planning
and persistence to perform up to a high standard. A conscientious person is regarded by others as being
well-organised, reliable and self-disciplined. In opposite, unmotivated, disorganised and negligent
individuals are regarded as being unreliable. In the case of a pilot, conscientiousness is a very crucial
factor. They are regarded to be one the most motivated and driven groups of individuals, since their
ambition to be a pilot is usually deeply rooted and long persisting. In addition, the tasks that a pilot has to
perform require a great deal of precision and accuracy, since there is very little room for error. Checklists
and manuals have to be followed very specifically and operations need to be fulfilled very precisely,
demanding a thorough and meticulous approach. Even after many hours of exhausting flight, they have to
maintain focused and alert on every occasion.
Conscientiousness
The willingness and persistency to be accurate and reliable in the course of action; driven by the need to
achieve high results through carefulness, organization and hard work.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
In regard to personality traits, Conscientiousness includes such aspects as the need for achievement
(ambition), the ability to organize one’s tasks and perform them in a precise way (accuracy) and the
power to stay focused and persistent in the course of action. Hence, the score on the competency
Conscientiousness is obtained by calculating the mean score for the personality traits ambition, accuracy
and perseverance.
2a. Ambition
The inner need to perform well and achieve high results, as well as a competitive approach; the
willingness to develop capacities to the maximum and the mentality of a ‘winner’.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
2b. Accuracy
This personality trait refers to the tendency to effectively organize and plan one’s duties and to work in a
precise and accurate fashion.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
2c. Perseverance
Perseverance refers to determination and consistency in the course of action. One has a strong
motivation to reach stated goals, is willing to work hard and will not easily give up or surrender.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
3. Leadership
The outcome on the second primary competency Leadership indicates to which extent the personality
traits, underlying effective leadership, are present. Effective leadership entails the ambition and drive to
step forward and take initiative and the ability to influence others in a convincing and encouraging way.
By doing so, a leader will be able to coordinate everyone’s efforts effectively to the task at hand.
Leadership is regarded to be a very important competency for pilots, especially because they are
considered the manager of the flight and they should be able to fill an executive role.
N.B. The factor age is of crucial importance in a sense that a low score on some of the personality traits
regarding leadership can to a certain extent be explained by youthfulness and lack of working experience.
Leadership
The competency leadership indicates the need, as well as the ability to show initiative, take charge and fill
a directing role in a team.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
The primary competency Leadership indicates to which extent an individual is motivated to fulfil a
managerial position (dominance) and whether someone perceives themselves to have the traits that are
necessary to do so in a convincing (persuasiveness) and assertive way. Hence the score for the
competency leadership is obtained by calculating the mean results of the personality traits dominance,
persuasiveness and assertiveness.
3a. Dominance
Dominance measures the extent to which one has the ambition to take charge or fill an executive role.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
3b. Persuasiveness
Persuasiveness indicates one’s belief in their own power to influence others in a convincing way, by
means of discussion and persuasive arguments.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
3c. Assertiveness
This competence refers to the ability to set boundaries, hold on to convictions in the face of resistance
and to speak up for oneself.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
F. Personal competencies
The results on the personal competencies are based on the scores of two more or less opposite traits. If
both traits are present to a fairly equal extent, they can balance out each other, resulting in equilibrium.
Within this equilibrium lies the possibility of developing the relevant competency to the desired level. On
the other hand, if the two traits appear disproportionately, they can negatively reinforce each other and
result in misbalance. The possibility of developing the relevant competency to the desired extent is far
more difficult in such a case. Hence, if a candidate’s scores lie on the opposite extremes of a pair of traits,
this may pose a threat in regard to the relevant competency.
4. Executive orientation
In general, two styles of leadership, that is to say task-oriented and people-oriented leadership can be
distinguished. The manager with a task-oriented approach finds it important that rules and procedures are
taken seriously. This type of manager is mainly focused on the content and the organization of the job.
Usually he/she succeeds in creating an orderly and disciplined atmosphere. A people-oriented leadership
style on the other hand, revolves around understanding of the employees; managers with an empathic
approach are able to place themselves in the position of other people. They listen to their employees
carefully and detect the dynamics in personal and group interaction. Thanks to this empathic attitude they
succeed in motivating others and they perform well in the role of an advisor. In general, a combination of
both these styles is required to be effective as a leader, as one should be able to alternate between these
two styles when needed. The personality traits accuracy and empathy measure to which extent the
dimensions, on which these Executive orientations are based, are found present.
4a. Accuracy
This personality trait refers to the tendency to effectively organize and plan one’s duties and to work in a
precise and accurate fashion.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
4b. Empathy
Empathy is the capacity to understand another person’s state of mind and emotions by placing oneself in
their position and trying to see things from their perspective.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
5. Team orientation
Team orientation indicates to what extent a candidate is willing to adapt to and participate in a team in a
constructive way, by being proactive as well as cooperative. This competency is indicated by the traits
teamwork and independence. The combination of a low score on the teamwork scale and a high score on
the autonomy scale indicates that one is strongly focused on reaching his/her own goals and not willing to
compromise or regard the needs of the team. This will present problems when constructive cooperation is
required in a group. On the other hand, a high score on the teamwork scale, combined with a low score
on the autonomy scale might lead to dependency and a lack of self-reliance. This may result in a passive
and dependent behaviour pattern when operating in a team.
5a. Teamwork
The willingness and preference to operate as a constructive member of a group.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
5b. Autonomy
The preference to make one’s own decisions and plans and be held accountable for one’s own
achievements, operating independently form others.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
6. Decision making process
Effective decisions are made, when there is a balance between judgement of situational factors and
vision on the bigger picture. One who tends to aim for details too much will find it difficult to judge a
certain situation entirely or to anticipate the consequences of his decision. Alternatively, individuals who
consider a too broad range of factors will not be capable of accurately understanding the situation and not
make deliberate decisions. The competency Decision making process therefore revolves around a
person’s focus when making a decision. The focus on detail is indicated by the personality trait accuracy
while having an eye for more relevant factors and the bigger picture - in the context of decision making -
can be approximated by the personality trait need for variation. If someone tends be too focused on
details without considering alternative aspects, the risk of a narrow minded judgement is present. On the
other hand, if someone has very little attention for details and tends to be too scattered when analysing,
there is the danger of lack of focus, resulting in less effective decisions.
6a. Accuracy
This personality trait refers to the tendency to effectively organize and plan one’s duties and to work in a
precise and accurate fashion.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
6b. Need for variation
This personality trait refers to the amount of distinction and stimulation one needs to remain focused and
motivated in his tasks or profession.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
7. Communication
In order to bring one’s point across and communicate effectively when operating in a team of goal
oriented professionals, a certain amount of diplomacy is needed. Especially in view of the fact that pilots
usually operate in changing teams and most of the times don’t know their colleagues very well.
Consideration of another person’s point of view (measured by the personality trait empathy) is thus
important. Then again, someone who tends to be too diplomatic may be in risk of keeping silent when a
voice should be raised. For example, when crucial information is overlooked, one has to speak up, even if
self-assertion (measured by assertiveness) means overruling a colleague. Therefore, a pilot needs to be
diplomatic as well as assertive depending on the specific situation. In respect to personality, someone
who tends to be over-assertive, without taking other people’s opinion into consideration might come
across as less diplomatic and insensitive. On the other hand, if a person is too preoccupied with other
people’s feelings and is not self-asserting, he or she might fail to speak up when necessary and be
considered non-assertive.
7a. Assertiveness
This competence refers to the ability to set boundaries, hold on to convictions in the face of resistance
and to speak up for oneself.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
7b. Empathy
Empathy is the capacity to understand another person’s state of mind and emotions by placing oneself in
their position and trying to see things from their perspective.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
G. Relational competencies
8. Service Orientation
The competency Service orientation indicates to what extent an individual can be characterized as
customer oriented. Though their main task is to fly the airplane, pilots are always also expected to
contribute to customer satisfaction as well if possible.
Service Orientation
Service orientation can be defined as the ability to take into account the needs and wishes of other
people and the willingness to respond to those needs.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
The score on this competency is indicated by the mean score on the two personality traits empathy and
helpfulness.
8a. Empathy
Empathy is the capacity to understand another person’s state of mind and emotions by placing oneself in
their position and trying to see things from their perspective.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
8b. Helpfulness
Helpfulness indicates whether one is willing to help others when in need and identifies with a service-
oriented job description.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
9. Sociability
When operating as part of a team, fellowship, sociability and open communication are important factors,
for they can be of benefit to the group process. In regard to group interaction, the competency Sociability
indicates to what extent someone can be defined as open and outgoing. Individuals with a low score at
this competency may act somewhat reserved and less communicative, especially in new formed groups.
They are more sensitive to social barriers. Alternatively, candidates with a high score at this competency
can be characterized as extrovert and communicative. They will find it easy to engage in social
interaction, even when they do not know their counterpart or colleague very well.
Sociability
The competency Sociability thus revolves around dynamism and openness in regard to different people in
different situations.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
The score on this competency is estimated by calculating the mean score of the two personality traits
openness and need for variation.
9a. Openness
Openness refers to a sociable extravert way of interacting. Within a group of strangers one feels
comfortable and is willing to mix and mingle. Spontaneity and charisma are often well developed.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
9b. Need for variation
This personality trait refers to the amount of distinction and stimulation one needs to remain focused and
motivated in his tasks or profession.
low average high
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9