An aircrew automation system may comprise an actuation system and a computer system having a processor and one or more interfaces. The computer system can be communicatively coupled with a flight control system of an aircraft and configured to generate control commands based at least in part on flight situation data. The actuation system is operatively coupled with the computer system and comprises a robotic arm, a force sensor, and a controller. The robotic arm can be configured to engage a cockpit instrument among a plurality of cockpit instruments. The force sensor is operably coupled to the robotic arm and configured to measure a force when the robotic arm makes contact with the cockpit instrument. The controller is operably coupled with the robotic arm and the force sensor.