What is the most effective way to monitor aircraft systems?

1 Type of aircraft

Different types of aircraft have different systems and configurations, which require different methods of monitoring. For example, a piston-engine aircraft may have a simple instrument panel with analog gauges, while a jet aircraft may have a glass cockpit with digital displays and integrated systems. Depending on the type of aircraft, you may need to monitor different parameters, such as engine speed, oil pressure, fuel flow, electrical load, hydraulic pressure, and so on. You may also need to use different tools, such as checklists, charts, manuals, or electronic flight bags, to assist you in monitoring the systems.

2 Level of automation

Another factor that affects how you monitor aircraft systems is the level of automation that is available and appropriate for your flight. Automation can help you reduce workload, improve accuracy, and enhance situational awareness, but it can also introduce new challenges, such as mode confusion, complacency, or loss of control. Therefore, you need to balance the use of automation with manual monitoring, and be aware of the limitations and failures of both. You also need to choose the right level of automation for the phase of flight, the weather conditions, and the operational environment.

3 Human factors

Finally, human factors play a significant role in how you monitor aircraft systems, as they influence your perception, attention, memory, decision making, and communication. Human factors can also affect your physical and mental state, such as fatigue, stress, or emotions, which can impair your ability to monitor the systems effectively. Therefore, you need to develop strategies to cope with human factors, such as managing workload, prioritizing tasks, cross-checking data, seeking feedback, and using crew resource management. You also need to maintain your skills and knowledge, and seek continuous learning and improvement.

Monitoring aircraft systems is not a static or simple task, but a dynamic and complex one that requires adaptability, judgment, and teamwork. By understanding the factors that influence how you monitor aircraft systems, you can improve your performance and safety as a pilot or engineer.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?