A human‐centred design agenda for the development of single crew operated commercial aircraft

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to make a case that with the appropriate use of human factors methods it is possible to design and develop a single crew commercial aircraft using largely existing technology.

Design/methodology/approach

From a review of the literature it is suggested that some of the functions of the non‐flying pilot would be better assumed by either onboard automation or ground‐based systems.

Findings

It is argued that the design of the flight deck and the role of the pilot require re‐conceptualising to accommodate the requirements for flying a highly automated aircraft single‐handed. With such re‐design, considerable efficiency gains will be achieved, but to fully realise these gains a system‐wide approach is required which extends beyond the design of the aircraft per se.

Research limitations/implications

This is only a high‐level thought piece to stimulate debate. Much greater consideration of all the issues raised is required, as is a change in regulatory requirements.

Practical implications

If implemented, the single crew aircraft could result in a revolution in air transport, offering considerable cost savings, especially on shorter routes with relatively small passenger loads.

Originality/value

A first attempt to use human factors as a design driver to produce operational and economic efficiency by the novel use of existing technologies spun‐out from other areas of aircraft development.

Citation

Harris, D. (2007), "A human‐centred design agenda for the development of single crew operated commercial aircraft", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 79 No. 5, pp. 518-526. https://doi.org/10.1108/00022660710780650