The Complexity Construct in Air Traffic Control: A Review and Synthesis of the Literature.

Abstract

Air traffic control (ATC) operations are the primary activity of the National Airspace System. This report summarizes the literature on ATC operations which has identified factors related to ATC complexity. ATC complexity has two components: sector complexity and traffic complexity. A model is proposed to explain the relationship between ATC complexity factors and controller workload. This review summarizes ATC complexity factors identified in the literature and methods used to measure them. In addition, the literature on information display, controller cognitive strategies, and individual differences is addressed with respect to ATC complexity. Metrics used to assess complexity are described. Airspace factors that correlate with controller performance and workload are presented. Controller information processing strategies that change in response to workload are reviewed. It is concluded that further research should emphasize how to apply these factors to improve sector design techniques and manage controller workload.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 01, 1995
Accession Number
ADA297433

Entities

People

  • J. A. Guttman
  • P. Kopardekar
  • R. H. Mogford
  • S. L. Morrow

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Traffic
  • Air Traffic Control Systems
  • Air Traffic Controllers
  • Cognition
  • Cognitive Workload
  • Control Systems
  • Data Displays
  • Geometry
  • Governments
  • Human Factors Engineering
  • Human-Machine Interfaces
  • Information Processing
  • Judgment
  • Mathematical Models
  • Measurement
  • Psychology
  • United States

Readers

  • Military/Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technology
  • Systems Analysis and Design
  • Team-Based Human-Centered Cognitive Task Decision Making and Information Performance.

Technology Areas

  • Space