What is the purpose of the after-action review (AAR) in aviation?

The purpose of the after-action review (AAR) in aviation is primarily to evaluate performance during operations and identify lessons learned. This process involves a structured assessment conducted after a flight or drill, focusing on what happened, what went well, and what could be improved. The insights gained from an AAR help personnel understand their effectiveness and enhance future operational readiness by integrating lessons learned into training and planning.

Through discussions during the AAR, aviators and crew members can share their experiences, analyze decision-making processes, and reveal underlying issues that may not have been apparent in the heat of the moment. This evaluative framework fosters a culture of continuous improvement, directly contributing to operational safety and efficiency. It empowers teams to learn collectively, ultimately improving performance in future missions and operations.