Executive Summary
The following report aims to observe and analyze the current functions of automation within the aviation industry. As such, the primary goal of the paper is to address the exact processes by which automation enhances or modifies the experience of pilots, flight attendants, and passengers through qualitative literature analysis. Using industry-relevant and academic literature, the study aims to categorize the various functions of automation and their advantages to the current operations within the industry. The report provides an analysis of the relevance and efficiency of these functions. Further, the paper will aim to find gaps in the current application of automation and potential approaches for future interventions in order to improve the presence of automation in the industry. Currently, available research suggests that automation functions promote safety through cohesion with human interference but interfaces are underdeveloped.
Introduction
Automation is one of the more novel facets of modern-day aviation. While many processes have been aided by automation throughout flights, the concept continues to evolve and appear within commercial travel. As such, automation in the field of aviation can be characterized as the use of multiple control systems and devices to improve flights and reduce the necessity of human interference. Air traffic control systems are one of the current areas which are undergoing a substantial adoption of automation (Meryeme et al., 2019). Similarly, the use of automation in cases of dangerous weather conditions frequently reduces the risks of air crashes and collisions.
This report aims to outline the facets of automation in aviation at present which includes the integration with human factors, pilot and computer interfaces, and flight management systems. Additionally, this work aims to explore the current known advantages and disadvantages of implementing automation in flights. Current academic research is also used to inform the potential trends and future developments of the concept within the field of aviation.
Human Factors Integration
The introduction of automation in relation to human factors refers to the use of technology in place of human interference. One of the most common implementations of automation in such a way is the use of autopilots. A pilot’s work throughout a flight includes the operation, handling, and monitoring of issues that relate to control systems and engines. They are also responsible for the flight to a destination in a safe and efficient manner). Such tasks over prolonged flights are often significantly exhausting, and exhausted aircraft workers may result in dangerous or even deadly outcomes (Banks et al., 2018). The introduction of the autopilot system had vastly reduced the risks as it works to assist and continue the flight without manual input from the pilot, allowing them to retain more energy and perform in a safe and appropriate way.
Auto-throttle is another component of the automation system that allows for an improved flight. The management of the flow of fuel allows the system to have control over the thrust from the engines. The system is able to identify engine parameters and control the engines in all areas of the flight, including takeoff (Zhang et al., 2021). The anti-skid braking system also improves the safety of traveling as they have the ability to control pressure by releasing braking wheels without manual interference before skidding or locking up. The primary goal of minimizing human interference with the use of automation is to mitigate fatigue and workload away from human workers (Gawron, 2019). The productivity and quality of work of the individuals in the aviation industry may then also improve.
Pilot and Computer Interfaces
The current assessment of pilot and computer interfaces has deemed the systems to be underperforming, and increased automation has the potential to ease these issues. This is often a result of poor integration of more modern technology with prior systems and devices. For instance, the control mode’s proliferation has caused issues with modern systems, especially in cases in which autopilots are controlling flights. However, modern approaches and capabilities can allow for improved automation of flight warning systems (Ancel et al., 2022). Automated warning systems are a growing trend within aviation, with only certain firms currently implementing them.
The warning system presents many advantages, such as the ability to notify a pilot of the need for monitoring and assessing the aircraft. These interfaces can allow the pilot to be informed of the state of the aircraft’s hydraulic, electrical, and other systems while in the cockpit. Environmental threats can also be monitored and considered in regard to the safety of the flight. Currently implemented automation systems include the wind shear avoidance system, GPWs, enhanced ground proximity warning system, and a number of other integral elements available directly through a cockpit interface (Gawron, 2019). Proper flight configuration, gear-related warning, and landing gear competitions warning are other vital features of the current automation interface approaches.
Flight Management System
Flight management systems, or FMS, rely deeply on the adequate implementation of automation. Most variations of FMS are highly specialized and allow for the automation of nearly all in-flight tasks and jobs that were performed by pilots and air hosts prior. Flight engineers and navigators benefit from FMS as a substantial amount of their work has been reduced and allows them to focus on tasks that require manual labor (Kelly & Efthymiou, 2019). Specific tasks such as the determination of the position of the aircraft during flight, sensor management, and additional automated tasks are currently controlled by an FMS throughout a journey. The FMS itself is controlled by pilots through a control display unit, which is located in the cockpit like the majority of other devices. Its management is simplified by its physical design which is usually a small touch-screen device that allows for easy access.
Advantages of Automation in Aviation
The automation system currently in place has often been questioned in regard to its effectiveness. While they reduce or mitigate tasks and relieve workers from exhaustion, they are similarly prone to error and can instigate accidents. As such, the modern use of automation requires further adaptation and development to ensure that risks of error are minimized. However, despite the instances of error, the majority of automation functions are more efficient in reducing risk factors than human factors (Alvarez et al., 2020). As such, the systems offer a variety of advantages. The primary benefits include the ability of automated systems to inform the crew of the situation and status of the flight as well as the significant improvements in operating costs of an aircraft.
Automation is more efficient in recognizing and observing issues that may occur within an aircraft. Similarly, the processes by which automation operates are more consistent and therefore less error-prone than inconsistent and variable human interferences (Özkan et al, 2021). As such, the systems are able to provide the crew with appropriate and relevant information during the flight, the take-off, and the landing. This process directly contributes to the reduced risk of collisions, crashes, the flying of incorrect routes, and other incidents.
Conclusion
The use of automation results in the focus of human labor on specific tasks and does not need additional human interference. As such, airlines are able to observe a noticeable reduction in operating costs due to the performance of computer systems. The cohesion of multiple systems, such as the flight function, fuel management, and weather controls, allows for ease and cohesion that could not otherwise be achieved. Such effectiveness provides passengers with better flight experiences and contributes to the overall performance of an airline company. The report has observed the ways in which automation is present in aviation, primarily through the assistance of human factors, the pilot and computer interfaces, and flight management systems. Automation works to reduce errors and create consistent operations which increase the safety, and productivity of workers, and reduce operating costs for airlines.
Recommendations
In order to consider relevant recommendations, it is vital to assess current academic literature and research in relation to gaps in automation within aviation. The central theme that recurs during most works is focused on existing advantages, disadvantages, and better adaptation to human factors within flight operations. As such, the primary issue in automation within the aviation industry is focused on the creation and facilitation of better interfaces (Osunwusi, 2019). These devices must utilize an intuitive and consistent design that provides pilots with easy transitions between planes, or even airlines. There is currently a lack of universality among automated technology within the industry, though it may prove beneficial in the long run. The recommendations that have been observed in this report suggest that industry-wide intervention and design creation is necessary to improve the experience of pilots with automation interfaces.
References
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Meryeme, H., Mohamed, B., & Salahddine, K. (2018). Optimization and automation of air traffic control systems: An overview. International Journal of Engineering, Science and Mathematics, 7(3), 104-116. Web.
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Özkan, Y. D., Mirnig, A. G., Meschtscherjakov, A., Demir, C., & Tscheligi, M. (2021). Mode Awareness Interfaces in Automated Vehicles, Robotics, and Aviation: A Literature Review. AutomotiveUI ’21: 13th International Conference on Automotive User Interfaces and Interactive Vehicular Applications. Association for Computing Machinery. Web.
Zhang, Z. T, Liu, Y. & Hußmann, H. (2019). Pilot Attitudes Toward AI in the Cockpit: Implications for Design. 2021 IEEE 2nd International Conference on Human-Machine Systems (ICHMS). IEEE. Web.