You Are The Backup To Safety Enhancing Aircraft Avionics

Theres no going back-we are in an era of high-tech avionics and cockpit automation. Even some LSAs are sporting "glass" cockpits and simple autopilots; cross-country airplanes sport panels and equipment unheard of even in high-end turbines scant years ago, and the turbines themselves are becoming more accessible to owner-pilots. Even the most capable of these airplanes, however, has its automation limitations. Proper operation and constant monitoring of automated systems remains the responsibility of well-trained and emergency-current pilots. On April 19, 2008, a Cessna Citation Mustang suffered substantial damage when its pilot ground-looped the light jet to prevent a runway overshoot at Carlsbad, Calif. According to the NTSBs preliminary report, this was an intentional act to prevent going off a cliff past the end of the runway after the pilot landed "fast" and beyond the mid-point of Carlsbads 4600-foot available landing surface. The pilots quick action may be credited with sparing injury (or worse) to the four people on board.

Key Takeaways:

• Despite increasing reliance on advanced cockpit automation in modern aircraft, pilots must maintain strong manual flying skills and be prepared to act as the ultimate backup in case of system failures or limitations.
• Over-reliance on automation, as exemplified by a Cessna Citation Mustang incident involving electrical and trim failures, can lead to pilot fatigue and an inability to safely execute manual procedures.
• New safety features in advanced aircraft, such as dual AHRS, an autopilot "Level" button for stabilization, synthetic vision, and a go-around button, enhance safety but do not diminish the critical role of a well-trained and proficient pilot.

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