# 2014-057 - Course Failure, Pilot, Progress Review Board (PRB)

Case Summary

F&R Date: 2015–01–12

The grievor objected to the decision of the Commandant of 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School (CFFTS) to terminate his pilot training. He alleged that his initial clearhood test was impaired by irregularities and did not comply with established standards. More specifically, the grievor was of the opinion that the clearhood test should be invalidated, as the speed of the crosswinds on one of the two airstrips used for his test was far above the 10-knot maximum standard. He also alleged that the change of airstrip during his test was carried out in a manner not compliant with flight safety.

The Initial Authority (IA) denied the grievance, agreeing with the decision of the Commandant of 3 CFFTS to terminate flight training in light of the facts and applicable policies. In the decision, the IA concluded that the weather conditions during the initial clearhood test were adequate. The IA also found that the grievor's manoeuvres were correctly evaluated, that the grades he received were reasonable, that he had enjoyed good flight continuity, and that 3 CFFTS had taken the necessary steps to guarantee the success of French-speaking trainees. Moreover, all rules concerning the conduct of a Progress Review Board (PRB) were respected.

The issue before the Committee was whether the decision to terminate the grievor's flight training was reasonable in light of the facts and applicable policies.

The Committee was unable to make findings regarding the speed of the crosswinds on one of the airstrips due to contradictory expert testimony. However, the Committee concluded that even assuming that the wind speed exceeded the 10-knot limit on one of the airstrips, that was not sufficient reason to invalidate the initial clearhood test. The Committee found that the evaluator had taken the necessary measures to ensure that the speed of the crosswinds was within the prescribed limits for conducting the initial clearhood test and that the change of airstrip occurred in compliance with the applicable policies.

Finally, the Committee concluded that the grievor had received an evaluation in compliance with the standard, that the failure assigned to him for the initial clearhood test was reasonable, and that the rules concerning the PRB had been respected.

The Committee recommended that the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) deny the grievance.

CDS Decision Summary

CDS Decision Date: 2015–05–27

The FA agreed with the Committee's findings and recommendation that the grievance be denied.