## 4 Results and Analysis
### Thematic Analysis: Findings
#### 4.1.4 Complexity: Findings  
Pilots identified several barriers to effective go-around execution. These include the complexity of the procedures, a lack of knowledge and skills, and insufficient practice in executing these manoeuvres; this sentiment has also been reflected by the EAA [85]. Not only did this include not practising high-risk manoeuvres, it also extended to the lack of understanding of the limits of the aircraft they are flying. Other aviation counterparts include a skills refresher as part of their flying schedule. Highlighted in the roundtable discussion, one pilot noted,  
\"It's [go-arounds] a skill that needs practice, which is not so common in GA.\"--RC4  
However, many of the pilots associated the lack of practice with ab initio training. Students are not routinely exposed to variable runway dimensions or crosswind conditions. Hence, once they get their licence, they are unfamiliar with how to handle such a situation. This is particularly enhanced once pilots aim to stay proficient but experience extended periods of inactivity, leading to skill degradation, which has been addressed in a safety issue report led by EASA [86]. \"Training and muscle memory is essential for a go-around.\"--RC5  
All participants, in both discussions, agreed that regular refresher training with instructors, even when licenced, is vital to ensure pilots can confidently approach a high-risk manoeuvre. Many addressed the idea of mistakes in training, and that pilots do not want to make mistakes, which was in addition to an instructor adding,  
\"A student should be able to recognise their mistakes [before going solo].\"--RC4  
\"People only want to refresh some skills, not all.\"--SF4  
EASA [86] reiterates that a lack of practice leads to proficiency decline in physical and cognitive skills, alongside procedural and declarative knowledge. Hence, many pilots suggested reiterating the importance of preparation, checklists, and not skipping any steps to mitigate error. As [PERSON]'s 1976 [87] decision ladder demonstrates, experienced pilots may bypass procedural steps, thus increasing their reliance on habit, so it is imperative to stay proficient. Debriefing after each training flight was recommended by the Smiths Falls roundtable participants to reinforce learning and error recognition. This removes the dependence on an instructor and would help pilots confidently handle complexity in high-risk scenarios. The topic of dependency shifted the discussion to concerns about over-reliance on automation, and pilots noted that  
\"Technology is replacing skill.\"--SF5  
Whilst \"replacing\" was a word that was disputed amongst the pilots, they all agreed that there is an over-reliance on technology. Pilots suggested greater use of simulation, especially during initial training. A recent study by [PERSON] et al. [88] supports this; through their research, they identified that aviation education should invest in and develop VR innovations due to benefits seen in ab initio pilot training. This will also allow students to gain experience and familiarity with the aircraft and airport, reducing unfamiliarity and associated decision stress. Airport factors can impact complexity, as even though there is a standardised airport layout, each airport is unique and has different factors for pilots to consider. Visual separation requirements further increase pilot workload during approach [89]. Furthermore, the pilots mentioned that noise abatement procedures can alter circuit patterns, increasing complexity. In conjunction with the factors above, the role of air traffic control also plays a significant role in approach complexity. Pilots noted that there is a higher workload at uncontrolled airports, due to separation responsibilities. Comparatively, pilots who had trained at an uncontrolled airport found controlled airports trickier, as constant communication is needed. Pressure falls both on pilots and ATCOs, as these phases of flight require more skill, awareness, and a better mental state [90].