5.3 Human Factors Definition

         Human factors in aviation can be defined as factors which can cause varied responses to the normal way work is done in various aviation fields specifically involving the traits that are unique to being human. Examples of human factors influencing work include poor work due to going to work tired, or forgetting important steps in the workflow. The FAA states that human factors like fatigue, complacency, and stress are very important things to monitor in the aviation maintenance industry in the AMT Handbook Addendum. (FAA ch. 14 p.1)

         During long flights, aircrews need to work together as an effective team to remain vigilant and competent during all hours of the flight. Sometimes on longer, international flights, there are 2 full aircrews on board. After one crew flies the takeoff and first half of the flight, the second crew flies the second half and landing portion. This may mean that each member of the crew could have over 8 hours of time on duty. Even though this is a long time, it can be similar to an 8-hour workday, and the pilots receive periods of rest.

         These methods of mitigating fatigue are examples of how aircrews avoid accidents due to human factors while on long flights. They take turns staying awake in order to make sure that whoever is PIC of the aircraft is awake and feeling well. They may take turns making position reports to Air Traffic Control and making navigation checks. These tasks also help pilots and aircrew members to avoid complacency due to boredom.

         Human factors in aviation are a big deal and must be closely monitored. Luckily, years of commercial airline operations have provided many good ideas and published procedures used to hold each member of the operation accountable. The FAA is important in this process because they are the ones who create these safety procedures and enforce them, and air traffic control is a huge help keeping pilots informed and alert. The NTSB is also responsible for researching accidents and providing useful information leading to the awareness of new problems and challenges arising in aviation every day, and the steps to be taken in order to prevent future accidents.









References:

Cox, J. (2019, June 02). Ask the Captain: Do pilots get bored on long-haul flights? Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/columnist/cox/2019/05/31/long-haul-flights-pilot-crew-sleep/1285421001/

F. (n.d.). AMT Handbook. Retrieved June/July, 2019, from https://www.faasafety.gov/files/gslac/courses/content/258/1097/AMT_Handbook_Addendum_Human_Factors.pdf.