Measuring the Effect of Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Aircraft Configurations on Pilot Learning and Performance
Abstract
Most emerging electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft feature distributed electric propulsion systems with automation features that simplify operations for future pilots. Increasing automation levels should reduce pilot workload, decrease training time, and improve performance consistency. Air Education and Training Command Detachment 62 (AETC/Det 62) sought to test this theory by conducting a study that involved 80 participants, two simulated eVTOL platforms, and multimodal assessments of flight performance. This report details the results of six separate sub-studies including 1. Measuring the innate capacity of the subjects in the study using a battery of psychometric tests. 2. Measuring automation impacts on human performance using expert ratings of rated pilots while performing hovering, takeoff, on-the-wing enroute navigation, and approach and landing maneuvers in either highly-automated or semiautomated eVTOL platforms. 3. Comparing the learning trajectories of ab initio participants with those of rated pilots in the two eVTOL simulators. 4. Comparing the performance of 10 rated rotary-wing pilots to the average performance of fixed-wing pilots. 5. Assessing performance improvements in airspeed and altitude control by comparing system-based data from each of the simulators. 6. Aggregating participant responses to questions related to flying the aircraft using thematic analysis. Overall, the results of these six sub-studies revealed that increased levels of automation improved flight performance and learning outcomes. Competent levels of performance were seen in both platforms and in both groups of participants after two hours of experience flying the simulated profile. This study provides empirical data measuring human and machine performance in eVTOL simulators. This study may be used to inform aviation policy, develop training programs, and influence design decisions in the aircraft.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 30, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1205353
Entities
People
- Andrew Anderson
- Cait Rizzardo
- Elizabeth Combs
- Frederick Haley
- Kent Halverson
- Luke Waggenspack
- Maria Chaparro
- Matthew Taranto
- Nicholaus Carrea
- Samantha Emerson
- Stephen B. Ellis
- Timothy Nissen
Organizations
- Air Education and Training Command
- Air Force Test Center
- Aptima (United States)