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Aviation glossary

Macho

What is macho?

FAA handbook figure illustrating macho

Macho is one of the five hazardous attitudes identified by the FAA, expressed by the thought "I can do it." Pilots with this attitude take unnecessary risks to prove they are better than others or to impress people. Although often considered a male trait, women are equally susceptible. The antidote to memorize is: "Taking chances is foolish." On the test: match Macho ("I can do it") with its antidote, "Taking chances is foolish."

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