Principal Investigator R Hansman
The AutoFlight Systems in advanced aircraft have evolved to a state of considerable mode complexity. Based on the current evolutionary trends of aircraft automation, future aircraft will have even more complex operating modes. This complexity has become suspect in several recent incidents. Complex operating mode structures are also suspected to hamper pilot training and pilot understanding of AutoFlight Systems. Research objectives include: (1) Investigate and identify major mode awareness problems in advanced AutoFlight Systems; (2) Identify candidate solutions, including the development of mode awareness augmenting displays; and (3) Evaluate the effectiveness of candidate solutions.