Human Factors in Aviation

Human Factors in Aviation refers to the interaction between humans and the systems within Aviation environments, including aircraft, procedures, equipment and organisational structures. Understanding Human Factors is critical for enhancing safety, efficiency and performance in aviation.

Here are some key practices:

1. Crew Resource Management (CRM): CRM focuses on improving communication, teamwork, decision-making and situational awareness among flight crew members. It emphasises the importance of assertiveness, leadership and mutual respect in the cockpit.
2. Fatigue Management: Fatigue can impair cognitive function, reaction time and decision-making abilities, posing significant risks in aviation. Effective fatigue management involves scheduling practices, rest regulations and education to mitigate the effects of fatigue on pilots and other aviation personnel.
3. Training and Education: Proper training and education programmes ensure that aviation personnel are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their duties safely and efficiently. This includes initial training, recurrent training, and proficiency checks to maintain competency.
4. Human Error: Human error is a common factor in aviation incidents and accidents. Understanding the types of errors, such as slips, lapses, and mistakes, helps in developing strategies to minimize their occurrence through improved design, procedures, and training.
5. Automation: Automation has become increasingly prevalent in modern aircraft, affecting the role of human operators. Human Factors considerations in automation design include interface design, workload management, mode awareness, and automation surprises.
6. Stress Management: Aviation personnel often operate in high-stress environments, which can affect performance and decision-making. Stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises, mindfulness, and coping strategies, help individuals effectively manage stressors.
7. Communication: Effective communication is essential for safe operations in aviation. This includes clear and concise communication between flight crew members, air traffic control, ground personnel, and other stakeholders.
8. Workload Management: Balancing workload is crucial to prevent cognitive overload or underload, which can impair performance. Proper workload management involves prioritizing tasks, delegating when necessary, and utilizing resources effectively.
9. Situational Awareness: Maintaining situational awareness involves understanding the current state of the aircraft, the environment, and other relevant factors. Training and technology can enhance situational awareness and help aviation personnel anticipate and respond to changes effectively.
10. Organizational Culture: Organizational factors, such as leadership, communication practices, and safety culture, influence human performance in aviation. A positive safety culture promotes open communication, continuous learning, and accountability for safety.

Regulation ED Decision 2022/011/R slightly changed the requirements of Human Factors by introducing Safety Risk Management into the syllabus included in GM1 145.A.30(e) (for Part 145) and GM2 CAMO.A.305(g) (for Part CAMO). The new name for this certificate is ‘Initial Safety Training (including Human Factors).

Bostonair offer online Human Factors training (initial/continuation) and Initial Safety Training including Human Factors, as per the requirements of GM1 CAMO.A.305(G) & GM1 145.A.30(E). These are available to purchase at www.bostonairgroup.com/training/online-training/