What effect can radiated electromagnetic interference have on aircraft systems?

Radiated electromagnetic interference (EMI) can significantly disrupt various aircraft systems, particularly communications and navigation, which are crucial for safe operations. This type of interference can lead to loss of signal integrity or complete signal failure, making it difficult for pilots to receive pertinent information or communicate with air traffic control. As a result, important navigation decisions may be compromised, potentially leading to safety hazards during flight.

The risk involved with EMI illustrates the importance of shielding and filtering in aircraft systems to minimize the potential for disruption. It is critical for aviation safety that these systems are designed to resist interference from electromagnetic sources, ensuring that pilots have reliable communication and navigation capabilities throughout all phases of flight.