Certified Flight Instructor - Flight Instructor Airplane Practice Exam

What is a potential drawback of using glass (digital) flight instrumentation?

1. It decreases flightcrew fatigue.

2. It increases safety in operations.

3. It may lead to complacency by the flightcrew.

4. It reduces training time for pilots.

The correct answer is: It may lead to complacency by the flightcrew.

The potential drawback of using glass (digital) flight instrumentation is that it may lead to complacency by the flightcrew. This is primarily because digital displays can simplify the information that pilots need to process. While traditional analog instruments require more active monitoring and interpretation, glass cockpit systems can make it easier for pilots to overlook the need for vigilance. With the wealth of information presented in a more cohesive and easy-to-read manner, pilots might become overly reliant on the technology, potentially leading them to disengage from actively monitoring flight parameters and situational awareness. This complacency can be particularly dangerous in scenarios where rapid response to unexpected situations is required, as the pilots may not react as swiftly or effectively as they would in a more traditional cockpit setup, where engagement is constantly necessary to interpret multiple gauges and indicators. The other choices highlight benefits of modern instrumentation, such as improved safety through data presentation, reduced fatigue due to easier readability, and decreased training time as the systems can be more intuitive. However, these advantages must be balanced against the risk of complacency, making it essential for flight crews to remain proactive regardless of the technology in use.