AVI 321 - Aviation Human Factors

(3 credits)

This course examines the human element in aviation operations and its impact on safety and performance. Students will study cognitive psychology principles, physiological limitations, and behavioral factors that affect aviation professionals including pilots, air traffic controllers, maintenance technicians, and cabin crew. The course covers sensory processes, attention and memory, decision-making under stress, fatigue and circadian rhythms, spatial disorientation, and human-machine interface design. Topics include error management, situational awareness, workload assessment, automation challenges, and the design of aviation systems to accommodate human capabilities and limitations. Students will analyze human factors contributions to aviation accidents and develop strategies for optimizing human performance in aviation environments. Prerequisites: AVI 101 Introduction to the Aviation Industry