Problems with Cockpit Automation

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes the pitfalls of automation within the cockpit. It discusses the advantages and disadvantages of automation and the problems that can be created by a pilot relying too heavily on automation. The paper examines whether cockpit automation is worthwhile overall or whether the inherent problems in automation are overtaking the underlying benefits.

Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Advantages and Disadvantages of Automation
Studies Conducted to Analyze the Impact of Automation within the Cockpit, with Suitable Examples
The Need to Bring in Automation
Accidents that Took Place because of Automation within the Cockpit
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"In conclusion, it must be said that although there are differing views on whether automation is really essential to the aviation industry in general and to the cockpit in particular, it is true that without automation, the human beings manning the aircraft would feel much more burdened and stressed than if a part of their duties were to be taken over by automation. Therefore, it is clear that although automation can indeed bring with it several problems of the nature described in this paper, it may be very difficult in this technology advanced world of today for a pilot to manage his aircraft without the aid of a computer. The secret may be that the pilot must not depend too much on the automation; he must remain aware and wary at all times of what is happening within the aircraft when he is manning it. This would put him into a better position of being able to handle a problem when it arose, instead of flailing helplessly when the aircraft was crashing. Automation must be, therefore, brought in to the cockpit, but within certain specific limits, so that the disadvantages or automation do not outweigh the advantages."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Muir, Helen C; Harris, Don. (2005) "Contemporary issues in human factors and aviation safety" Ashgate Publishing, Ltd.
• N. A. (1999, Nov) "Cockpit automation may bias decision making" Air Safety Week. Retrieved 12 November, 2007 from http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0UBT/is_46_13/ai_57598959
• N. A. (n. d.) "Flight Deck automation issues" Retrieved 12 November, 2007 fromhttp://www.flightdeckautomation.com/qs-resaccidents.aspx
• Norman, Donald A. (1990) "The problem of automation, inappropriate feedback and interaction, not over automation" Retrieved 12 November, 2007 fromhttp://www.jnd.org/dn.mss/Norman-overautomation.pdf
• Veillette, Patrick R. (Jan, 2006) "Watching and Waning" Retrieved 12 November, 2007 from http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?channel=bca&id=news/glass_0206.xml

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