Pilots are lacking basic flying skills because of automation and are relying on autopilots too much , says Professor Les Westbrooks of Embry - Riddle Aeronautical University . These comments were made after the recent crashes of Boeing 737 Max airliners , with investigators examining both pilot training and the aircraft ’s anti - stalling technology . Federal Aviation Administration acting Administrator Daniel Elwell said pilots in both accidents appeared to have made mistakes and did n’t deal with a computer system early enough . Industry analysts said automation has made it one of the safest means of transport although pilots must be able to take over if necessary .
Pilots are losing basic flying skills because of automation and are relying on autopilots too much, says Professor Les Westbrooks of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. These comments were made after the recent crashes of Boeing 737 Max airliners, with investigators examining both pilot actions and the aircraft’s anti-stalling technology. Federal Aviation Administration acting Administrator Daniel Elwell said pilots in both accidents appeared to have made mistakes and didn’t deal with a computer problem early enough. Industry analysts said automation has made aviation one of the safest means of transport although pilots must be able to take over if necessary.