Environmental Effects on Attack Helicopter Crew Task Performance in the NATO Theater
Abstract
The report addresses the unique tasks, requirements and demands upon attack helicopter crews and the effects of the environment upon the performance of these tasks. Night operations under low ceilings, reduced visibility, high or low speeds, nap-of-the-earth flight profiles and a threat of sophisticated antiaircraft weaponry is defined as the 'worst-credible-environment' for the NATO theater. In this environment, the attack helicopter and its crew will be expected to fly a large percentage of its missions and deliver its ordnance with a high degree of accuracy. Task performance is outlined in a detailed matrix. Collective tasks are grouped into functional task clusters. The effects of climatic conditions, the hostile threat, social and civil factors upon performance of these task clusters are discussed. The effects of the machine/ mission created environment are presented and include hypoxia, toxic products, temperature extremes, visual and optical problems, acoutics, vibration, and human factors. Aircraft safety and reliability are directly affected by all of these factors.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0726949
Entities
People
- Stanley C. Knapp
Organizations
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Lab