What is Compass Test?

The Compass Test (COMputerized Pilot Aptitude Screening System) is a widely used method of testing pilots’ psychometrics and motor skills. A similar test can also be used for testing ATCs, where it is called the FEAST test.

Testing is conducted on a computer with specialized software. Different tasks are given to the user, who interacts with the computer using different types of control (keyboard, mouse, pedals, yoke, headset). Each task is intended to test a different skill (e.g. attention, speed, spatial orientation, logical thinking).

There are two types of test. The Basic Compass Test (sometimes called Ab-Initio) and the Advanced Compass Test. Each version includes the following tasks:

Basic Compass Test:

• Eye-hand-foot co-ordination
• Eye-hand co-ordination
• Short-term memory
• Mental arithmetic
• Spatial orientation
• Multi-tasking

Advanced Compass Test:

• Complex control task
• ATPL theoretical questions
• Short-term memory
• Mental arithmetic
• Spatial orientation
• Multi-tasking

You can choose to complete the exercise in English or Chinese (Mandarin). Tasks are time limited and each test takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

Many airlines around the world use the Compass Test to assess pilots during the interview, for example Emirates and British Airways.

A similar tool for testing airline pilots is the Pilot Aptitude Test. Unlike the Compass Test, the Pilot Aptitude Test is available to everyone. For a small fee you can practice many different tests online to prepare for your interview. Tests are usually tailored to specific airlines. So, for example, you can find the interview tests used by easyJet, Norwegian or Jet2 there.

Another tool developed primarily for testing potential airline pilots is the PILAPT test, which nowadays is also used for air traffic controllers.