Human Factors Survey: C-5 Pilots
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to conduct a broad preliminary human-factors survey of MAC C-5 pilots. Questionnaire and interview data were collected from 34 C-5 pilots (volunteers), with anonymity guaranteed. Study results are grouped under demographic, mission, physical, physiological, psychological, psychosocial, and pathological categories. Potential human- faguaranteed. Study results are groupectors problem areas within he C-5 pilot population are suggested by the sample-group findings. The chronic problem of airlift-crew fatigue is apparent. Nearly 56% of the survey pilots reported significant levels of fatigue during a typical leg of their most recent strategic airlift missions. Also, a majority of them indicated various problems (probably fatigue related) with attention--such as distractions during critical phases of flight, boredom/complacency during the cruise portion, and fixated/channelized attention. Many pilots reported life- event changes and stresses--including a variety of family/marital problems, recent separation/divorce, financial crisis, nonselection for promotion, and other career dissatisfactions. A significant portion of the pilots reported difficulties (again, possibly fatigue related) involving procedural recall, instrument cross-check, radio calls, missed checklist items, task saturation, and flying proficiency in general during the reference flight. The findings, including interrelationships, are discussed. These results appear consistent with reports being submitted by crewmembers to the HQ MAC/IGFF Accident Waiting to Happen (AWTH) near-mishap reporting program. The findings of this study are recommended for use by MAC's operational planners and managers
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA147106
Entities
People
- James S. Majors
Organizations
- United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine