Aeronautical Decision-Making: A Basic Staple Chapter 5 Introduction Aeronautical decision-making (ADM) is a cornerstone  in managing risk. ADM provides a structured framework  utilizing known processes and applying recognized pathways,  which individually and collectively have a positive effect  on exposure to hazards. This is not achieved by reducing  the hazard itself, but by helping the pilot recognize hazards  that need attention.  ADM is a systematic approach to the mental process used  by pilots to consistently determine the best course of action  in response to a given set of circumstances. It is what a pilot  intends to do based on the latest information he or she has. 