A 747-400 captain warns about the drive toward fully-automated passenger flights in the light of recent accidents. While he identifies many invaluable ways that instrumentation and automation have made it easier and safer to fly, he draws attention to many examples where no computerized system can save the day.

Captain Peter H. Collins offers a deep and insightful consideration of the evolving role of automation and artificial intelligence in modern aviation. Drawing from his extensive experience as a 747-400 captain, Collins presents a nuanced analysis of how advancements in instrumentation and automation have dramatically enhanced flight safety and operational efficiency.At the same time, he critically examines the potential risks and limitations that come with the increasing reliance o...