Using heuristics to glide an Airbus A320 following all-engine failure in cruise: a simulator-based experimental study

Performing a controlled glide of an Airbus A320 following an all-engine failure at cruising altitude is a highly demanding task for pilots. This study investigates whether judgement heuristics can enhance pilot performance in managing this scenario. While the existing ALL ENG FAIL Airbus procedure provides valid guidance, it offers disconnected navigational inputs to the pilots. This simulator-based experimental study evaluates whether integrating simple heuristics as feedforward artefacts improves pilots’ anticipatory navigational control. Twenty-four airline crews were divided into two control groups (using the Airbus procedure only) and an experimental group (with the option to supplement the manufacturer’s procedure with heuristics). Results showed that the use of heuristics improved pilots’ ability to plan and monitor the glide, resulting in a higher rate of successful landings. These findings support the potential value of incorporating judgement heuristics into pilot training and procedural design to enhance decision-making under uncertainty and high cognitive demand.