Tell me about a time you chose a conservative option under operational pressure.
Choose an example where you were under pressure, such as delays, passenger needs or a tight schedule, and picked the safer option. Explain the situation and the options, and why you judged the cautious choice was right, for example a weather or fuel margin. Describe how you told the crew, dispatch and passengers. Give the result, including any cost or delay, and what you learned about keeping to safe margins even when others push.
How do you evaluate a diversion decision when weather and fuel margins are changing?
Follow company procedures and stay ahead of the situation. Check the latest weather at the destination and alternates, the fuel remaining and the fuel needed for each option. Compare choices, including continuing, holding and diverting, and decide the point at which you must commit. Talk openly with the other pilot, ask for their view and use ground support such as dispatch or air traffic control. Decide early, make it clear, and tell the crew and cabin team. Choose safety over schedule.
How do you encourage junior crew to raise concerns in the cockpit?
Set the tone before the flight. In the briefing, say plainly that you want to hear concerns and that speaking up is expected. Invite challenge, for example by asking what they would like to check. When someone raises a point, thank them and respond, even if it turns out to be nothing. Use closed loop communication, where you repeat back what was said so it is clear. Show by your own behaviour that questions are welcome, and give feedback afterwards.
A colleague appears to miss a critical checklist item. How do you intervene?
Speak up straight away, in a calm and clear way. Point to the item and say plainly what you have seen, for example by asking whether it has been done. Check the actual state of the aircraft or checklist rather than assuming. If it was missed, complete it using the correct procedure. Keep the tone respectful, not blaming. If it was serious or looks like a pattern, report it through the company safety system afterwards.