FAA debuts online 'human factors' training

The Federal Aviation Administration Tuesday announced the debut of an online training program on the importance of "human factors." The Web Course consists of 10 self-guided lessons about the role that sensory, mental and physical capabilities and limitations should play in the design and development of machines.

"Improvements to aviation safety and capacity are dependent on developing a national aviation system that is not only technically sophisticated, but also human performance-based and human-centered," Joan Bauerlein, FAA's aviation research and development director, said in a statement.

The Web course is designed for people who support FAA system acquisitions, but it is open to the public. FAA employees can receive a training certificate for successful completion.

FAA requires systematic integration of human factors at every critical step in the design, testing and acquisition of new technology introduced in the U.S. aviation system.

The Web course adds breadth to a continuing human factors program whose beneficiaries, according to the FAA, are spread throughout government and industry. Knowledge of human factors, the agency said, is resulting in aircraft that are safer and easier to fly, and air traffic control systems that are quicker with decision support and more resistant to errors.