In aviation terminology, what does "human factors" encompass?

The term "human factors" in aviation refers to the study of how humans interact with various systems, focusing on their abilities, limitations, and behaviors in operating aircraft and working within the aviation environment. This field examines how these interactions can influence safety, performance, and efficiency. Understanding human factors is crucial in designing cockpit interfaces, creating training programs, and developing procedures that accommodate human cognition and behavior, ultimately leading to improved safety and operational outcomes in aviation.

This encompasses aspects such as crew resource management, communication, decision-making processes, and the physiological and psychological aspects of human performance during flight operations. By focusing on human abilities and their interactions with systems, aviation professionals can better mitigate risks and enhance the overall effectiveness of flight operations.