One hot topic in aviation is the ramifications of automation. Are pilots losing important manual skills due to an over-dependence on automation? If the computers fail, do the pilots have the skills to recognize the failure and execute an appropriate recovery? If a problem with automation exists, what are possible solutions? Word on the street is that pilots should thought of more as "computer operators", rather than the historic "pilot". What do you think? How will this redefining of skills impact your career?
Flight students, in addition to the research and articles that exist, you have direct experience with automation in your training aircraft. Much of the current research is conducted on transport aircraft pilots, but what about pilots of GA aircraft? What about your experiences?
Management students, while you may not have direct experiences with automation in the cockpit, you may eventually have some direct input into the solutions. What are some possible solutions? What are some of the concerns an airline manager may have when implementing these solutions?
To both: Or do you think that over-dependence on automation is not really an issue? Do you think that focusing on this as a reason for some of the current accidents actual diverts attention away from other valid problems that need attention?
To get a basic idea of the topic, please read the following articles:
AvWeb - "Should Airline Pilots Fly More - Or Less?"
and
APImpact - "Automation in the Air Dulls Pilot Skill"
Again, you can approach this topic however you wish. The questions above are only asked to get the wheels turning. The only requirements are to have one link and write 3-5 paragraphs.
Have fun!
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