At the 2023 UPRT Safety Summit, Delta Air Lines presented the results of a multi-year operational safety analysis evaluating the effectiveness of its upset prevention and recovery training (UPRT) program in reducing loss-of-control-in-flight (LOC-I) precursor events.
The analysis was presented during the summit’s opening session, “Elevating Air Carrier Safety Risk Management to Counter LOC-I,” by Delta Air Lines Lead UPRT Subject Matter Expert Captain Brian Sims. According to the presentation, Delta observed an approximately 50 percent reduction in LOC-I precursor exceedance rates following the implementation of its UPRT program.
The findings were based on de-identified Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) and internal safety trend data spanning approximately five million flight operations over a five-year period. Results were presented on a rate basis to preserve confidentiality while enabling longitudinal comparison of operational safety performance over time.
Captain Sims emphasized that the reduction reflected an active UPRT program—one that is systematically implemented, continuously monitored, and reinforced through instructor qualification, recurrent training, and data-driven risk mitigation. As part of Delta’s broader safety management approach, operational data from FOQA, voluntary safety reporting, and industry accident analysis are reviewed to identify LOC-I precursors and apply targeted mitigations through training, procedures, and, where appropriate, aircraft systems enhancements.
Delta’s UPRT program was developed and delivered in collaboration with Aviation Performance Solutions (APS) and aligned with the Every Pilot in Control Solution Standard (EPIC-S2). EPIC-S2 defines a comprehensive framework for effective UPRT, including instructor qualifications, integrated program design, training platforms, instructional intensity, industry best practices, and ongoing oversight. Delta requires designated UPRT subject matter experts for each fleet type, with specialized qualification and recurrent training to ensure consistency and effectiveness in program delivery.
The operational data shared during the summit add to industry understanding of how properly designed and implemented UPRT programs can function as measurable risk-reduction tools within airline safety management systems. The results presented reflect Delta Air Lines’ specific training design and execution and should not be generalized to all UPRT programs.
EVIDENCE SUMMARY — DELTA AIR LINES UPRT STUDY (OPERATIONAL RESULTS)
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Evidence type: Longitudinal operational safety trend analysis
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Data source: FOQA and internal safety monitoring
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Scope: ~5 million flight operations over ~5 years
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Measured outcome: ~50% reduction in LOC-I precursor exceedance rates
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Training framework: EPIC-S2–aligned UPRT
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Source: Public presentation, 2023 UPRT Safety Summit
These study results were also highlighted by Aviation International News (AIN).
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