EPIIC Accelerates the Future of Human-Centric Cockpit Innovation
As the EPIIC (Enhanced Pilot Interfaces & Interactions for Fighter Cockpits) project approaches the completion of its first phase, recent months have demonstrated not only significant technological progress but also the growing impact of its research across the European aviation and defence ecosystem.
Bringing People Behind Technology into the Spotlight
Recognizing that people ultimately drive innovation, EPIIC relaunched its Team Stories initiative with a refreshed format designed to showcase the experts shaping the future of cockpit technologies.
The renewed series highlights the diverse expertise of consortium members and provides unique insights into the multidisciplinary nature of future aviation research. Recent features included Juan Carlos and Dr. Lida David. These stories reinforce one of EPIIC’s core principles: the future cockpit must remain fundamentally human-centric.
Exploring the Future of Pilot Interaction
Human-machine interaction remains a central pillar of the project's research activities. Through the newly launched “Myth or Truth” dissemination series, EPIIC has been actively engaging broader audiences in discussions about future cockpit technologies.
Complementing these activities, EPIIC released a dedicated video exploring the role of eye-tracking technologies in aviation. The video demonstrates how gaze-driven systems can support pilot attention management, reduce the risk of missed targets, and improve situational awareness in highly demanding operational environments.
Scientific Contributions and International Visibility
EPIIC partners continued to disseminate project outcomes through high-profile international scientific events. A notable contribution came from the University of Patras, representing the EPIIC project at IEEE ICHORA 2026, the 8th International Congress on Human-Computer Interaction, Optimization and Robotic Applications, held in Ankara, Türkiye.
EPIIC research was also showcased at Display Week 2026 in Los Angeles, the world's premier event for display technologies, providing an excellent opportunity to strengthen international collaboration and explore emerging display technologies.
Looking Beyond EPIIC: The Beginning of EPIIC2
While EPIIC Phase 1 is approaching its conclusion, the project's vision continues to evolve. Building upon the technological foundations established during the current project, the consortium has announced EPIIC2, a new 36-month initiative dedicated to advancing enhanced pilot environments through further studies, system design activities, and prototype development.
As the aviation ecosystem continues its transformation, EPIIC remains committed to pushing the boundaries of human-machine collaboration and shaping the future pilot environment.
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.