What is an advantage of using a multi-function display (MFD) in aircraft?

A multi-function display (MFD) provides a significant advantage by reducing the number of required displays in the cockpit. This consolidation of instruments allows pilots to view various types of flight data—such as navigation, engine performance, and system alerts—on a single screen. The integration into one display streamlines the overall design of the cockpit, which not only enhances the aesthetic but also simplifies layout and usability.

Reducing the number of displays can help in minimizing pilot workload by decreasing the need to monitor multiple instruments at once. This can result in quicker access to critical information and a more efficient use of cockpit space, leading to better situational awareness. Additionally, with fewer displays, there is a reduction in potential failure points, which contributes to overall system reliability and maintenance.

The other options do not present advantages typical of MFDs. For instance, increasing software complexity and limiting data accessibility would generally be considered drawbacks rather than benefits, while concerns about increased weight do not align with the streamlined design ethos of MFDs.