What is Pushbutton in aviation? A pushbutton, commonly abbreviated as PB, is a critical interface component used extensively in modern aircraft cockpits and avionics systems. These devices allow pilots and ground crew to initiate commands, adjust settings, and control aircraft systems through the simple act of pressing a button. Although seemingly straightforward, pushbuttons are engineered to meet rigorous standards for safety, reliability, and durability given the demanding environment of aviation operation.
Pushbuttons exist in various sizes, configurations, and functions within an aircraft. Typically, they are designed to provide tactile feedback to help pilots identify activation without needing to constantly look at the panel. Their implementation ranges from controlling navigation systems to adjusting autopilot functions, making them a fundamental part of both legacy and modern glass cockpit designs.
Pushbutton Usage in Modern Cockpit Systems
The Pushbutton (PB) serves multiple roles in contemporary cockpit layouts, especially within electronic flight instrument systems (EFIS) and flight management systems (FMS). Pilots interact with pushbuttons to input flight parameters such as altitude, heading, throttle settings, and autopilot modes. In a typical commercial aircraft cockpit, over 400 pushbuttons can be found, forming an intricate matrix of control options.
In addition to mechanical pushbuttons, many modern aircraft feature capacitive and membrane-type buttons that reduce mechanical wear while enhancing reliability. For example, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner features a glass cockpit equipped with touch-sensitive PBs integrated into multi-function displays, which respond to approximately 70 grams of applied force and provide haptic feedback of 5 milliseconds duration. The materials used for aviation pushbuttons often include aerospace-grade aluminum or stainless steel, designed to withstand extreme temperatures from -55°C to +85°C and vibrations up to 15 g rms during turbulent conditions.
Technical Specifications and Safety Standards of Pushbutton in Aviation
When discussing pushbuttons in aviation, it is essential to note the strict technical specifications and safety standards governing their design and operation. Aviation PBs must comply with DO-160G environmental testing standards, which encompass tests for temperature, humidity, shock, vibration, and electromagnetic interference. The buttons must operate reliably over at least 1,000,000 actuation cycles without failure.
Pushbuttons must also conform to ergonomic standards that minimize pilot workload and prevent inadvertent activation. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommend pushbutton labeling, illumination, and layout consistency to aid situational awareness. Specialized illumination LEDs embedded within pushbuttons typically use current ratings of around 20 milliamperes at 28 volts DC, ensuring visibility in dim conditions without causing excessive power draw. These PBs often include locking mechanisms or guarded covers in critical functions to prevent accidental use, such as engine fire suppression or emergency system activation.
Integration and Future Trends in Pushbutton Technology
As aviation technology advances, the use of Pushbutton (PB) interfaces continues to evolve. Integral to the integration of fly-by-wire systems, pushbuttons now interface directly with digital flight control computers, offering pilots customizable control schemes and automated system checks. Modern avionics suites incorporate PBs into touch screen panels supplemented with tactile switches for redundancy, merging traditional button functionality with modern touchscreen versatility.
Future trends in PB technology are focusing on smart pushbuttons that incorporate sensors to measure the amount and duration of pressure, enhancing command precision and enabling adaptive cockpit interfaces. Research is ongoing in developing pushbuttons with built-in self-diagnostic capabilities to signal maintenance needs proactively. For more detailed technical standards and latest advancement in cockpit systems, refer to resources such as the FAA’s official [Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook](https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/amt_handbook/media/FAA-H-8083-30-ATB.pdf).
