What emotional state can lead to poor decision-making in flight?

Anger or frustration can significantly impair cognitive functions such as judgment, concentration, and situational awareness, which are critical for safe flight operations. When a pilot experiences these emotions, their focus may shift away from the necessary tasks at hand, leading to an inability to assess risks accurately or respond appropriately to changing flight conditions. Decisions made under anger or frustration may be impulsive rather than calculated, increasing the potential for errors during flight. Recognizing and managing emotional responses is crucial for maintaining safety and ensuring effective decision-making in the cockpit.