Nov. 17, 2025
In business aviation, being able to work effectively during high-pressure situations takes time, training and experience.
When pilots, FBO general managers, aircraft sales executives and other professionals are required to perform at a high level under stressful conditions, it is often the way they handle themselves that sets them apart. Mastering this skill can be a valuable key to a successful career.
Three business aviation professionals offered their perspectives and guidance on how those new to the industry can begin developing and improving their resilience to stress.
Train Your Response to Stress by Rehearsing
Michael J. Mulawka, CAM, chief pilot at Rich Products Corp., suggested using mental exercises with the help of a training partner.
“When a pressure-filled situation arises, I take a mindful pause – take a deep breath, listen, and then I can be mindful of my approach to the problem,” said Mulawka. “Everyone handles stress differently. I make it a point to be aware of the other person’s body language to help gauge my response. I can’t allow myself to overreact.
“But staying calm is not a natural reaction. You have to learn how to handle these situations,” he added. “Having someone you trust as a sounding board will help you practice and rehearse how you respond. After the situation passes, take a moment to look back and see if you handled it in the best way you could have.”
Avoid the Drama
“I think my No. 1 tip is to strive to stay calm, no matter what the situation. Human nature is that you are sometimes drawn into the drama of the immediate problem,” said Jamie Santiago-Muñoz, general manager at Galaxy FBO in Addison, TX. “If you overreact, two things will happen: One, you won’t be able to think as clearly as you need to. The second is that those around you will tend to follow your lead. If you aren’t calm, they won’t be either.
“Like everything in aviation, preparation and perspective are key to maintaining control,” she added. “I continually go through different scenarios, trying to take into account all the possible impacts of a variety of decisions and then take a minute to look back on past situations to be sure I am learning from them.”
Focus on Stabilizing the Situation
“When people get into fight or flight, high-stress situations, the thought is you have to immediately choose a direction and commit, but I’ve found it’s more effective to step back and analyze the situation thoroughly,” said JetHQ Sales Engineer Hannah O’Malley Wolf. “My approach is to master the balance of urgency and precision.
“So, when I’m in a stressful scenario where I’m expected to provide an immediate solution, I offer a steady response that stabilizes the current situation, not necessarily committing to the best option at that moment,” Wolf explained. “Most times, just responding satisfies the immediate parameters and reassures others you are working on it. Then I can take time to find the best long-term, sustainable solution.”
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.