When Glass Goes Dark

Among the first things pilots learn is what to do if something goes wrong. Instrument pilots get to learn what to do when instruments or the systems powering them fail and how to get back on the ground with what’s left. Back in the days when each instrument was a separate, physical thing instead of a software construct presenting symbols or alphanumeric data, their presentation was relatively well known and predictable. These days, however, those same instruments often have been replaced with what is essentially a computer screen. What happens when it fails?

Key Takeaways:

• While modern glass cockpits boast high reliability, failures can occur due to various reasons like electrical issues, wiring problems, or simply the aging of hardware, with the likelihood of failure potentially increasing over time.
• Pilots must receive and maintain recent training in partial-panel flight, adapting to backup instruments, as research indicates this preparedness is crucial for successfully managing a glass cockpit display failure.
• The article outlines specific emergency procedures for both partial ("red X") and total ("completely dark") glass cockpit failures, emphasizing precise flying, utilizing available backup systems, and landing at the first suitable airport.

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