Human Error In Aviation

1373 Words6 Pages

This research project is an evaluation of aviation-related accidents related to human factors. The student will denote knowledge and understanding of all 11 program outcomes including but not limited to quantitative reasoning, information literacy, critical thinking, aviation legislation and law, aeronautical science, aviation safety, and aviation management and operations. This research paper will explain human factors, more specifically human error and how it plays a very critical role in aviation-related accidents and more times than none considered the causal reason. The student will take a look at and ratiocinate the human factors as they apply to aviation accidents. The student will provide recommendations to implement, modify, or eradicate …show more content…

This is not a surprise considering that human beings are prone to making mistakes. Although the number of accidents caused by mechanical failure has drastically declined incidences associated with human error have continued to rise. Human error still continues to be the leading contributor of more aircraft accidents and incidents compared to any other single factor (Burke, Salas, Wightman & Wilson, 2006). Errors by the flight crew, air traffic controllers, maintenance personnel and others with a direct impact on the safety of the flight constitute human errors. The persistent occurrence of accidents caused by human error could be an indication that the interventions directed towards reducing the occurrence of mechanical failures are more effective as compared to those aimed at avoiding human errors. Understanding the origin of human error and its relation to accident causation is therefore vital to the further reduction of accidents in the aviation industry. Human factor is the most valuable, adaptable and flexible yet vulnerable part of the aeronautical …show more content…

Research reveals that the use of wrong parts, incorrect installation and omissions are the most common cases of maintenance errors (National Transportation Safety Board, 2000). Other minor forms of maintenance errors include inadequate lubrication, leaving loose objects in the plane, electrical wiring discrepancies and failure to secure the refuel and fuel caps. A typical example of an incident caused by maintenance error is that of Boeing 747's in 1991. The aircraft experienced in-flight engine shut downs as a result of several human errors. Investigation showed that the accident was caused by procedural defects, incorrect installation of O-rings, use of defective components and functional defects (National Transportation Safety Board,