How is situational awareness best defined?

Situational awareness is best defined as the perception of the current environment, which involves understanding and interpreting the factors and dynamics occurring in a given situation. It encompasses recognizing what is happening around you, including the status of people, objects, and events, as well as understanding how they might affect your actions and decision-making.

In aviation and many other fields, having a strong situational awareness allows individuals to anticipate potential developments, react appropriately to changes, and make informed decisions based on the context they are in. This ability to perceive and interpret one’s environment is crucial for operating effectively, especially in complex and dynamic scenarios. While being aware of potential risks, performing maneuvers, or knowing aircraft systems are important skills, they are more specific aspects related to situational awareness rather than its definition itself.