FAA Reminds Pilots To Avoid Distractions

In light of several incidents, the FAA has called for operators to create and enforce policies that will limit distractions in the cockpit and keep pilots focused on transporting passengers safely, and that guidance also applies to the business aviation world. The FAA also issued an Information for Operators (InFO) to remind crewmembers and operators that any cockpit distraction that diverts attention from required duties can “constitute a safety risk.” This includes the use of personal electronic devices–such as laptop computers, netbooks and e-readers–for activities unrelated to flight, the FAA noted. In the InFO, the FAA is asking operators to address the issue of distraction through their crew training programs and to create a safety culture to control cockpit distractions.