The National Transportation Safety Board has highlighted concerns around overreliance on automation in recent incident analyses, noting that excessive dependence on automated systems can reduce pilot situational awareness.

Investigations show that in certain scenarios, crews relied too heavily on flight management systems and automated controls, leading to delayed recognition of abnormal conditions. When automation did not behave as expected, manual intervention was sometimes slower or less effective.

The findings reinforce the importance of maintaining strong manual flying skills alongside modern avionics proficiency. While automation improves efficiency and reduces workload, it must be actively managed rather than passively monitored.

Industry experts are emphasising the need for balanced training that includes both advanced system knowledge and hands on flying proficiency. Strengthening manual skills ensures pilots remain fully capable of managing aircraft safely in all conditions.

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