Pilots 'automation dependence' putting passengers' life at risk

Pilots have become too dependent on automation which could become a threat to passengers, an international panel of air safety experts has warned.

The Wall Street Journal reviewed a 277-page report, which claims pilots 'sometimes rely too much on automated systems' and are often 'reluctant to intervene,' news.com.au reports.

According to the report, the study said this over-reliance on computers, along with pilots' failure to keep up with changes in technology, poses the biggest threat to passenger safety worldwide.

The report said that some pilots 'lack sufficient or in-depth knowledge and skills' to properly control their planes.

The study was commissioned by the US Federal Aviation Administration and written by a team of industry, labour, academic and government officials.

The study said that pilots 'must be provided with opportunities to refine' their manual flying skills.