Less stress for airline crews

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. In this vein, the EU-funded project 'Advanced cockpit for reduction of stress and workload' (ACROSS) is working on improving crew performance during high workload periods to upgrade safety.

To achieve its aims, the project is working on developing and testing new flight deck solutions to better manage peak workload situations during a flight and to reduce pilot stress. It is improving on cutting-edge automation systems to support the flight crew during intense workloads.

ACROSS is also working on novel cockpit-based technologies that enable a reduced crew to operate safely in certain conditions. This involves different scenarios such as intentional reduction of crew during long-haul flights, partial crew incapacitation and even full crew incapacitation. For example, in rare instances where a pilot may suffer from physical or psychological issues, this particular solution could be very useful.

Another important project aim is to identify challenges concerning the implementation of single-pilot operations in the future, which stands to minimise operational costs while maintaining safety standards. In this context, the team is looking at single-pilot operations as a case study that spurs innovation and solutions to raise safety standards.

Overall, the tools and guidelines emerging from the project promise to increase overall safety in air transport, including possibly the avoidance of future incidents and accidents. 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 to improve cost effectiveness, providing a competitive advantage to airlines and benefiting passengers.

Other benefits include enhanced primacy for the European air transport industry and new opportunities for the aviation equipment manufacturing industry. Once the project is completed, it will represent yet another valiant effort to enhance safety and strengthen Europe's leading position in the sector.