New cockpit technology continues to improve gliding operations, but it can also create new distractions and increase pilot workload.
Participants discussed the growing use of:
- electronic flight displays
- moving-map systems
- tablets and integrated variometers.
These tools can improve navigation and awareness of surroundings, but spending too much time looking at screens can reduce external visual scanning.
Human performance was a key topic in the workshop. We found factors that affect safety include:
- fatigue
- distraction
- decision-making under pressure
- age-related changes in capability.
Participants also raised lithium polymer batteries in portable devices as a safety concern due to their increasing use in aircraft.
What you can do
You can support safe use of technology by training pilots to use cockpit systems properly and focus on visual lookout and awareness of other aircraft.
You should:
- train pilots to use cockpit electronic devices safely
- focus on the importance of keeping a visual lookout and awareness of other aircraft
- set clear rules for charging, storing and using lithium polymer batteries
- include technology distraction and human performance risks in training and safety systems
- use a structured approach when introducing new technology or systems.
What we have done
We continue to promote awareness of human factors and good decision-making through:
- education
- safety campaigns
- engagement with industry.
These activities help improve understanding of factors that affect pilot performance and safety, including:
- awareness of surroundings
- workload, fatigue
- communication
- decision-making in complex situations.
We also work with industry on new technologies, the safety issues they create, and how industry introduces them into existing operations.
We use occurrence reports, identified hazards and emerging trends to monitor safety risks and help identify areas that may need further attention or action.