Question of the Week: Fly the Airplane?

Editorial Staff

Thursday, May 26, 2011 at 12:00 AM ET

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Key Takeaways:

The Air France 447 crew reportedly became so engrossed in managing aircraft systems that they neglected fundamental flight control, according to the Wall Street Journal.
This incident prompts a critical discussion on whether advanced automation in cockpits makes pilots safer or more vulnerable.
The article features a poll asking readers to weigh in on automation's impact on aviation safety.

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According to the Wall Street Journal, the crew of Air France 447 got so wrapped up in the management of systems they forgot to “fly the airplane” as so many of us had drummed into us.

Has automation made us safer – or more vulnerable?
(click to answer)

Last Week’s Question: Results

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