Effect of Free Flight Conditions on Controller Performance, Workload, and Situation Awareness

Abstract

Free flight represents a major change in the way that aircraft are handled in the National Airspace System. It has the potential to significantly increase airspace utilization and, by doing so, improve aircraft throughput. The degree to which these objectives can be met without compromising aircraft safety will depend on appropriate changes in the air traffic control system. This study provides an evaluation of some of the potential effects of free flight on controllers' ability to maintain an accurate and complete picture of the traffic situation. This picture or mental representation is essential for monitoring and separation functions. The study revealed that, using current technology, some aspects of free flight may adversely influence the situation awareness and performance of controllers. The results provide information on some possible consequences of free flight that should be explored in future research.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1997
Accession Number
ADA340228

Entities

People

  • Earl S. Stein
  • Kenneth R. Allendoerfer
  • Mica R. Endsley
  • Michael D. Snyder
  • Richard H. Mogford

Organizations

  • Federal Aviation Administration

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Traffic
  • Air Traffic Control Systems
  • Air Traffic Controllers
  • Air Transportation
  • Aircrafts
  • Cognitive Workload
  • Control Systems
  • Experimental Design
  • Flight Paths
  • Free Flight
  • Fuel Efficiency
  • Personnel Management
  • Psychology
  • Simulations
  • Situational Awareness
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Training

Readers

  • Aerospace logistics and air mobility.
  • Fluid Dynamics.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Space