Automation refers to control of a process or system by a machine or electronic device. Each automated system requires a different level of monitoring by the user. Some require extensive operator input and monitoring, while others are almost completely independent. For example, entering an elevator car and selecting the desired floor requires minimal monitoring. Once the operator selects a floor, the elevator starts a complex process that delivers the car to the desired location and opens the doors when appropriate — all with minimal operator involvement.
Human-machine researchers have defined eight levels of automation, ranging from systems where the operator must do everything with little help from the automation to those where the automation does everything, ignoring the operator.1 In aviation, automation designed for pilots falls in the middle of this spectrum. This automation level “executes the suggestion automatically, then n…
