What is the primary objective of threat and error management (TEM)?

The primary objective of threat and error management (TEM) is to enhance mission effectiveness by systematically addressing potential threats and errors that can affect the outcome of a flight. TEM focuses on identifying and mitigating risks during all phases of flight, which directly contributes to achieving the overall goals of the mission. By concentrating on how to deal with both external threats (such as weather or air traffic) and internal errors (like decision-making or situational awareness lapses), TEM helps pilots maintain operational effectiveness in complex and dynamic environments.

While flight safety is certainly a crucial aspect of any aviation operation and is indirectly supported by effective TEM practices, the concept is primarily framed around ensuring that the mission is accomplished successfully, highlighting the importance of operational goals in the context of both safety and performance. Similarly, pilot training and operational efficiency are important, but they are means to achieve the overarching aim of effective mission execution.