Originally Posted by
morelegroom
The man machine interface of an aircraft is a very complex environment to analyze. Better design always reduces the chance of human error. Calling something "Pilot error" independent of adequate analysis of the role of design is simply an analytical error. Further , the role of job task analysis and operator conditioning is critical.
In operating rooms in the USA it is unlawful to use the same connectors for Oxygen and nitrous oxide. In England it is routine and errors are always called human errors. But the error is in the system in failing to optimize the design to avoid errors.
I've taught this area now for 40 years. I've seen designs for equipment that would make your hair curl.
The NTSB report hardly ignored design of cockpit and icing. Pilot error accurately describes any pilot who responds to a stall warning without applying recommended throttle and nose down commands, and then follows the stick pusher activation by manually overriding it. The q400 design did its best to override the errors of the pilots, but to no avail.