Here's What Pilots Notice First When Switching Between The Airbus A350 & Boeing 787 Cockpits

Pilots transitioning between the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 experience notable differences in their respective cockpit layouts, primarily focusing on the primary flight displays (PFDs) and associated controls. The A350’s PFDs utilize a more traditional horizontal arrangement with a larger display area, while the 787’s PFDs are vertically oriented and feature a smaller screen size. This difference extends to the control placement for key systems such as engine bleed switches, which are located differently across both aircraft types. Furthermore, pilots highlighted variations in the navigation system interfaces, reflecting the distinct design philosophies of Airbus and Boeing. These discrepancies require dedicated training and familiarization periods to ensure seamless transitions and operational safety during flights.