Longer term safety improvements originated from airframe systems and engine reliably, but here’s not much avionics in those. More recently from avionics system reliability and overall system redundancy – design and certification have helped.
Another aspect has been improved weather information; better communications and weather radar.
EGPWS – note the ‘E’ for enhanced; this has probably had the most dramatic effect in improving safety.
Nowadays there are some improvements from navigation systems, but much of this relates to capability as it does to safety.
Many modern avionics systems are promoted as safety improvements – EFIS, HUD, FMS, FBW, etc, but it may be too early to judge any meaningful results, and there could still be some pitfalls from the rapidly developing capabilities which these systems offer. Also, the industry has to judge (understand) the human interface with these modern systems and any effect on safety. Again, don’t misjudge ‘safety’ for capability – the safety trend is now very flat.
P.S. I would add that most of the safety improvements beyond the development of the equipment relate to the operation of the aircraft; and this perhaps remains the most ‘at risk’ aspect of civil flying.
Last edited by PEI_3721; 3rd December 2011 at 14:43.