# 2014-126 - Progress Review Board (PRB), Training Failure

Case Summary

F&R Date: 2015–02–13

The grievor objected to the decision of the Commandant 2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School (2 CFFTS) to terminate his Pilot training. He alleged that the lack of continuity in the Clearhood flying portion contributed to his course failure. He also argued that extenuating circumstances warranted the continuation of his Pilot training. For example, the grievor was of the opinion that he should have been given the opportunity to re-fly some of the missions as his instructor had told him that he would not be scheduled to fly until he had met with the Flight Surgeon. Moreover, he argued that the weather was unsuitable for the Initial Instrument Test (IIT) and that, when one passes the retest of a failed sequence, the initial failure should not be considered a failed test. Finally, the grievor argued that the instructor did not follow procedures, which negatively affected his performance during the Basic Navigation Test (BNT).

The Initial Authority (IA) denied the grievance, finding that the decision to terminate the grievor's Pilot training was in accordance with the applicable policies. The IA concluded that the grievor was provided ample support while on course. He found that the three flying tests rated as failures were administered fairly and accurately reflected the grievor's performance, as he had not met the required standard. The IA was also of the view that the Progress review Board (PRB) process was administered fairly.

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

The Committee found that there was no evidence to support the grievor's contentions that extenuating circumstances precluded him from flying the IIT, the Initial Clearhood Test (ICHT) or the BNT. Moreover, the Committee was unable to conclude that the weather reports on file demonstrated that the weather was unsuitable during the IIT.

Notwithstanding that the grievor met the proficiency level on his retest, the Committee found that the initial failure of the sequence during a test must be considered as a failure. He also found that the testing officer's conduct during the BNT was well within the acceptable norms and that he carried out the test in accordance with the Integrated Training Plan.

Finally, the Committee found that the initial lack of procedural fairness by the PRB was cured in that the decision maker had all the information before him when he rendered his decision. As a result, the Committee found that the decision to cease the grievor's Pilot training was reasonable and in accordance with the policies.

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

CDS Decision Summary

CDS Decision Date: 2015–03–18

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