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Black ops for Black boxes

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author argues that current avionics development is misguided, focusing on an excess of features and complex displays rather than true pilot assistance and safety.
  • Instead of adding more functions, avionics should act as an "expert copilot" by intelligently inhibiting, catching, and proactively preempting pilot mistakes.
  • This approach prioritizes context-aware, smart systems that enhance safety and ease of use, embodying a "less is more" philosophy over feature overload.
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Today I’m daydreaming about sneaking into a boardroom where avionics execs are brainstorming the next generation of avionics. The more time I spend with the latest avionics, the more I figure these guys could use some help. Besides, it’s likely there’s free coffee and donuts. Freelance CFI habits die hard.

While they’re talking features and touchscreens and ease of use, I’ll slip an extra chocolate honey-dipped into the pocket of my Goodwill suit and find a seat as far from the PowerPoint as possible. Right about the time the debate begins on whether suppressing text messages on the ILS should be mandatory or optional, I’d clear my throat and tell them they’re going about this all wrong.

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