What type of display is used for cockpit displays?
Modern aircraft cockpit display systems utilize several specialized display technologies, each engineered to meet the demanding requirements of aviation environments.

Modern aircraft cockpit display systems utilize several specialized display technologies, each engineered to meet the demanding requirements of aviation environments.
The primary display technology in contemporary cockpits is the Active Matrix Liquid Crystal Display (AMLCD). These displays have largely replaced older CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) systems due to their superior performance characteristics:
- High brightness (typically 800-1000 nits for commercial aviation and up to 1500+ nits for military applications) ensuring readability in direct sunlight
- Wide viewing angles allowing both pilot and co-pilot to view information clearly
- Low power consumption compared to alternative technologies
- Excellent color reproduction for clear differentiation of information
- Long operational lifespan measured in tens of thousands of hours
- Low weight and depth conserving precious cockpit space
These LCD panels are extensively modified for aviation use with specialized features not found in commercial displays:
- Optical bonding that eliminates internal reflections and increases durability
- Anti-reflective coatings reducing glare from cockpit lighting
- Enhanced backlighting systems providing consistent illumination across the display surface
- Specialized color filtration ensuring accurate color reproduction in all lighting conditions
- Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) compatibility for military and emergency service aircraft
For military applications, cockpit display systems often incorporate additional hardening:
- Electromagnetic shielding protecting against interference
- Vibration and shock resistance for operation in high-stress environments
- Extended temperature range operation for extreme environmental conditions
- Sealed enclosures preventing moisture and contaminant intrusion
The physical configuration of these displays varies by aircraft type:
- Primary Flight Displays (PFDs) showing critical flight parameters
- Multi-Function Displays (MFDs) presenting navigation, systems, and situational information
- Engine Indicating and Crew Alerting Systems (EICAS) monitoring powerplant and aircraft systems
- Heads-Up Displays (HUDs) projecting critical information onto a transparent screen in the pilot's forward field of view
- Standby displays providing essential information if primary systems fail
Newer aircraft are increasingly implementing advanced display technologies:
- Larger, integrated glass cockpit displays replacing multiple smaller screens
- Touchscreen interfaces in some applications, though typically with redundant physical controls
- Higher resolution panels displaying more detailed information
- Synthetic vision systems providing terrain visualization regardless of outside visibility
Companies specializing in aerospace human-machine interfaces like Aeromaoz engineer display systems that meet the rigorous certification requirements of aviation authorities worldwide. These specialized manufacturers understand that cockpit display systems must operate flawlessly in all conditions, as they present information critical to flight safety.
The cockpit display ecosystem continues to evolve, with emerging technologies like OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) displays being evaluated for future applications. However, any new technology must prove its reliability, durability, and performance in the demanding aviation environment before widespread adoption.
What's Your Reaction?






