27 May 2011

A failure to communicate

It’s a fundamental part of the Airbus philosophy about automation that pilots should not be able to assert individual control outside of a defined envelope that guarantees the stability of the airplane.

As long as the autopilot and engine auto-thrust are engaged, the computers inhibit pilots from superseding the commands of the system.

Boeing, in contrast, within its own version of a fully automated flight deck, has a system that allows pilots to intervene at any moment when they feel it necessary.
I know which airline I'd rather be on.