Abstract
Automation is an integral part of modern aviation operations. However, the discipline of human factors has long acknowledged its limitations and called for improved design. The aim of this study was to analyse automation-related incidents and accidents in aviation to identify recurring contributory factors. Sixteen investigation reports for incidents and accidents involving automated systems were included in the study. The reports were analysed using the AcciMap approach and a contributory factor classification scheme was applied. Results showed that multiple interacting factors from across aviation systems contribute to automation-related incidents and accidents. The most frequently identified contributory factors were associated with situation awareness, compliance with procedures and unsafe acts, judgement and decision making, design of the automation, and organizational policy and procedures relating to use of the automation. It is suggested that improving the design of automated systems to better support situation awareness, decision making and air crew performance generally would provide a safety benefit.
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