Since their invention a century ago, autopilots have helped to make air travel safer and more efficient. That trend continued with the introduction of computerized "fly-by-wire" jets in the 1970s. But now, aviation experts worry that we've gone too far. We have shifted so
many cockpit tasks from humans to computers that pilots are losing their edge. Without actual flight experience or practice, pilots develop what aviation experts call "skill fade" or "skills decay."
Computers now handle most flight operations between takeoff and touchdown—so "frequent practice" is exactly what pilots are not getting. Even a
slight decay in manual flying ability can risk tragedy. A rusty pilot is more likely to make a mistake in an emergency. Automation-related pilot errors have been implicated in several recent air disasters, including the 2009 crashes of Continental Flight 3407 in Buffalo, Air France Flight 447 in the Atlantic Ocean, and the botched landing of Asiana Flight 214 in San Francisco in 2013.
As a result of these tragic accidents, a report from a Federal Aviation Administration concluded that pilots have become "accustomed to watching things happen, and reacting, instead of being proactive." The FAA is now urging airlines to get pilots to spend more time flying by hand.*
Is it possible
that we have also entered this quandary when it comes to actually studying our Bibles? As wonderful as it is that you and I can connect each and every day via an e-mail devotional, I would never wish that you ONLY read the Open Word "in lieu" of actually opening the word for yourself. There is incredible value to be gained in studying God's Word, and our choice to open it up and see what it says is an invaluable tool for spiritual growth.
Have a great day and God bless!
Suggested Daily Bible Reading
Morning - Haggai
Evening - Revelation 17
* Adapted from Nicholas Carr, "Automation Makes Us Dumb," The Wall Street
Journal (11-21-14)
