The Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS) refers to a modern technological advancement in aviation that replaces traditional analog flight instruments with digital displays and electronic sensors. It is a comprehensive system that provides pilots with crucial flight information in a clear, precise, and intuitive manner, enhancing cockpit safety and situational awareness.
The EFIS includes a primary flight display (PFD) and a navigation display (ND) or multifunction display (MFD). The PFD is the primary source of flight data and presents information such as attitude, altitude, airspeed, vertical speed, heading, and flight path vector. It integrates data from various sensors and systems, displaying essential flight parameters in a user-friendly format.
The ND or MFD offers navigation and situational awareness data, showing maps, weather information, traffic alerts, terrain awareness, and system status. This display provides pilots with real-time information necessary to navigate accurately and safely.
The EFIS operates using a network of sensors, which are integrated with other aircraft systems. These sensors include air data computers, attitude and heading reference systems (AHRS), GPS receivers, and inertial navigation systems (INS), among others. These sensors relay accurate data to the digital displays, eliminating the need for error-prone manual readings.
The benefits of the EFIS include improved readability, reduced workload, increased operational efficiency, and enhanced safety. It provides pilots with a comprehensive overview of the aircraft's performance and status, allowing for more informed decision-making during all phases of flight. Moreover, the EFIS is designed to be adaptable and upgradable, making it compatible with various aircraft types and capable of accommodating future technological advancements.
