Introduction
In this presentation, qualitative research was utilized to observe and analyze the current presence of automation within the aviation industry. The study focuses on the integration of automated features within the operations of aviation. Primarily, this includes the use of automation in human factor-impacted integration, pilot and computer interfaces, and flight management systems (Meryeme et al., 2019). These are the primary areas that are impacted by automation within the industry in current practices. Human factor integration involves direct processes, such as autopilot and autothrottle features. Pilot and computer interfaces reflect the processes that allow professionals to monitor and control remote operations, such as fuel consumption. Flight management systems refer to practices that implement automated design to minimize human labor workload and reduce fatigue. Similarly, the study also observes the current known and hypothesized advantages and drawbacks of automation within the aviation industry.
Research Method
The study utilized qualitative research of relevant and current academic and industry-specific literature and works. Using data collection, the report was able to determine the primary functions of automation and its current utilization in flights. Additionally, qualitative research has allowed for the identification of recurring and potential issues of automation. Ten academic works regarding the functions of automation and relevant concerns in aviation were analyzed in the report. The majority of the works indicated that current research is focused on the improvement of interfaces in relation to automated technology (Banks et al., 2018). Literature analysis was used to gather relevant information in order to select the relevant themes. As such, the focus was on themes such as workload reduction, fatigue mitigation, integration, interface development, and human-centered values. These are the factors that informed the study and allowed researchers to gather the central components that currently affect the nature of automation within the industry.
Findings
The findings of the report have observed the success and gaps in the current implementation of automation. The three primary themes and areas of automation application are significant to the findings as they illustrate the competencies and issues of current systems. Human factor integration is the area showing the most beneficial uses of automation as they are better integrated with the operations conducted by pilots. Pilot and computer interfaces and flight management systems are similarly successful but require further intervention in order to reduce risks. Similarly, the study was able to find additional advantages of the implementation of automation including cost reductions and safety of flights (Zhang et al., 2021). Overall, the findings suggest that the modern implementation of automation in aviation is largely effective and has the potential for growth and development (Gawron, 2019).
Future Research
Future research within the field indicates that the development of improved interfaces is integral to improving flights. Specifically, systems and interfaces must prioritize safety, universality, cohesion, and risk reduction in order to be successfully utilized by pilots and firms. Any further development in automation that drastically changes the landscape of the technology runs into similar issues as automation in land vehicles (Ancel et al., 2022). Future devices and systems must consider the impact on humans and the risk management approaches that are appropriate. As such, future research will benefit from currently ongoing studies in generalized automation that may be similarly applied to operations in aviation.
Human Factor Integration
Findings concerning the human factor integration of automation were vital in illustrating human-centered issues and concerns that are mitigated by automation. Fatigue and human error are frequent factors that can lead to adverse instances during flights. A majority of automation within this section addresses these elements. Processes such as autopilots, monitoring systems, auto-throttle, fuel management, engine parameter identification, anti-skid mechanics, and control over thrust are vital to the overall operations (Gawron, 2019). The use of automation in these practices allows for consistency and the removal of human error as well as the reduction of pilot fatigue. As such, these implementations of automation directly contribute to improved pilot performance as responsibilities and manual labor are shared in a more balanced way between the human and automated processes.
Pilot and Computer Interfaces
Pilot and computer interfaces share features with human factor integration but allow for greater control and monitoring of automated processes. These operations can include control modes, warning systems, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, environmental threat monitoring, ground proximity warnings, and wind shear avoidance. These processes are automated and are usually engaged throughout the duration of a flight, primarily as warning methods in case of issues or hazards (Kelly & Efthymiou, 2019). As such, automated monitoring allows pilots to engage with observed issues without requiring constant surveillance. Similarly, automated systems perform better at the detection of issues and allow pilots to reduce fatigue. However, studies show that current interfaces lack sophistication and improvement within the modern landscape of aviation. Further development of interfaces is necessary to elevate current performances.
Flight Management Systems
Flight management systems, also referred to as FMS, include programs and devices that allow for seamless achievement of tasks for all flight functions. This refers to work done by pilots, air hosts, flight engineers, and navigators. FMS can be accessed through control display units by pilots while in flight and provide relevant information, communication tools, and further necessities not covered by other automation systems (Alvarez et al., 2020). Direct access by all appropriate crew similarly improves the work process of all parties involved and reduces the risk of error and fatigue. It is very effective in providing seamless operations for pilots and hosts while flying and directly contributes to the welfare and safety of passengers. However, it suffers from a similar issue that has been noted in pilot and computer interfaces. Current FMS displays and interfaces lack clarity and usability in order to achieve tasks in more effective ways. This may be the result of an absence of universality and industry standards that could drive the improvement of such interfaces.
Summary
The report that was conducted selected relevant works that addressed the state of automation that is currently implemented within the aviation industry. The research has suggested that automation is utilized in three primary approaches. These include human factor integration, pilot and computer interfaces, and flight management systems. While automation allows for the overall improvement of flights by reducing pilot fatigue, and human error, and elevates task performances, issues are also present. Automation is able to do so by providing varied systems of operations such as autopilots, auto-throttle, fuel management, environment threat detection, warning systems, flight management, and sharing of information. Primarily, current interfaces that are accessible to pilots lack clarity, and cohesion, and thereby limit the capabilities of pilots. The majority of academic works suggest that further development of interfaces relies on the trajectory of automation within the industry (Özkan et al., 2021). Adoption of many elements of the technology varies from firm to firm and reduces cohesion as a result.
Conclusion
The studies suggest that the current implementation of automation is beneficial and efficient. The reduction of fatigue and stress experienced by pilots is a large factor that vastly improves the quality of flights. The rise of automation is linked to the better well-being of pilots and is integral for further improvements. Automation has secondary effects on the performance of firms by improving safety and reducing operating costs. This is likely the result of less frequent damage and issues affecting aircraft, thereby requiring less intervention, maintenance, and repairs. As such, automation has further positive implications in the aviation industry. The improvements in flight lead to better experiences for passengers. These changes directly contribute to the welfare of airline firms and their further development in multiple areas. As such, changes in the application of automation have numerous effects on firms and the industry as a whole.
Recommendations
Current research suggests that already existing as well as potential automated technology can deeply affect the operations conducted throughout flights. There is a need for improvement in regard to interfaces in order for pilots to have increased accessibility and cohesion between firms and aircraft. Additionally, further application of theoretical automation procedures within aviation is likely to follow findings in automated processes of land vehicles. The primary concerns include response to issues, safety, human-centered concerns, and risk management. The assessment of these themes in general automation is likely to impact the aviation industry (Osunwusi, 2019). Current research is still indecisive in multiple areas such as the use of artificial intelligence for risk mitigation and ensuring passenger safety. As such, the report recommends that further analysis is necessary in order to better understand the potential changes to automation within the aviation industry.
References
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