Hazards Associated with Human Machine Interface in Part 121 Operations Based on ASRS Reports

<p>Hazard identification is the first step of safety risk management within a safety management system. Hazards of human-machine interaction could exist within Part 121 operations, of which the operator is unaware. Poor human-machine interaction can increase workload and decrease situational awareness. The purpose of this study was to identify human-machine interface hazards, which lead to poor performance. NVivo Plus version 12 was used for exploration, coding and analysis of Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS) reports. More nodes were reported in descent, approach (initial and final), and climb than other phases of flight. Majority of the nodes during descent and initial approach are with TRACON, during final approach are with tower, and during climb are with center. The coded occurrences of human-machine interactions in January and September are higher than other months. This research identified a high prevalence and similarity of coding for <em>mental model influenced by automation interface </em>and <em>attention allocation influenced by competing tasks and demands</em>. Further quantitative research could be performed to parse out the various aspects of <em>automation interface </em>and <em>competing tasks and demands</em>, and to identify factors influencing human-machine interaction during different months.</p>