Llanfairpg
Pilot error is a misleading term, I don't care who you quote in support.
Human error is the correct term and it applies across a range of scenarios and disciplines.
Look at Reason's Swiss Cheese model, just as applicable in the oil industry or schools as it is in aviation.
Laterality affects bank clerks just as much as pilots, group think catches investment bankers as well as 727 flight decks.
Chuck
I laughed at your point about mechanics and pilot hero egos - unfortunately the UK CAA chooses to name the person in charge of any aerial apparatus the 'commander', so like it or not the PIC of a balloon or C150 in the UK is the commander, just as is the case with a 747.