Abstract: The system embodying the invention involves a communications instrument comprising a sensitive surface coupled to a processor ensuring management of a plurality of display elements, the dialogue between said instrument and said processor taking place according to a sequence comprising a first operational mode in which the sensitive surface is virtually divided into a plurality of zones corresponding isomorphically with the geometrical disposition of the display elements, and a second operational mode in which a variable displayed on a visualisation element is modified subsequent to displacement of the operator's finger on the sensitive surface. This system is notably suitable in the case of management of a large number of display elements and is highly ergonomic.

Abstract: The piloting assistance method embodying the invention consists in displaying on a screen of the cockpit of the aerodyne, in a Cartesian reference space representing altitude/distance from ground along a horizontal plane, way points identified by a series of marks, plural way points, a reference vertical profile connecting the way points by connecting lines and altitude constraint symbols indicating a minimum altitude at which the aerodyne can pass, a maximum altitude at which the aerodyne can pass and an altitude at which the aerodyne must necessarily pass, a symbol indicating the position of the aerodyne. The invention enables the pilot to have a clear vision of the vertical situation of the aerodyne along its flight plan.

Abstract: A method for revising the lateral flight plan of an aircraft uses a designator and validator device connected to the flight management system of the aircraft to obtain on the ND screen of this system, in addition to a geographical representation of the flight plan selected by the pilot, a touch-sensitive area associated with each point of the ND screen and dynamically assigned function areas for constructing menus. A cursor is moved on the ND screen by action of the pilot on the designator device. The cursor can be moved to a function area or a touch-sensitive area. activating the function represented by the function area or selecting the touch-sensitive area being achieved by action of the pilot on the validator device. The method simplifies the task of the pilot who has only one display screen to monitor.