Cockpit applications and technologies to tackle crew stress and workload
While aviation accidents have decreased in recent years, the EU is constantly striving to reduce the possibility of a mishap due to human error as much as possible. This is particularly important since air traffic is growing, requiring the utmost efficiency in operating an aircraft. With this in mind, the EU-funded ACROSS (Advanced cockpit for reduction of stress and workload) project worked on improving crew performance during high workload periods to upgrade safety. To address flight crew issues that impact air traffic safety, ACROSS focused on human factors from the perspective of on-board personnel. Central to this approach were tasks that determine a crew's workload at any given time, technologies to help evaluate their workload at all times, as well as crew replacement in extreme circumstances. Project partners developed flight automation and crew assistance solutions, including automatic recovery and envelope protection functions. These safely reduce the amount of crew actions, peak workload and stress levels by providing a certain degree of automatic response to unplanned events. The ACROSS team also developed navigation and mission management solutions. Such tools simplify crew tasks during peak workload and carry out flight plans with less crew members. This is done by detecting threats along the flight plan, avoiding them by adapting the plan, and assisting the remaining flight crew in conducting all relevant navigation and mission management tasks. Lastly, recommendations were made for the management of reduced crew operations, training and progress on developed functions. ACROSS tools, technologies and guidelines will increase overall safety in air transport. In addition, the envisioned systems will reinforce the image of a very safe mode of transport. They will also help to reduce crew in the long run, thus improving cost effectiveness, providing a competitive advantage to airlines and benefiting passengers.
Keywords
Cockpit, crew stress, aviation, ACROSS, flight crew
