Electronic Checklists on Multi-Purpose Displays: A Better Way For Fighter Pilots to Manage Information and Situational Awareness during Periods of High Workload
Abstract
After accumulating mishap data from the 1990's, accident investigations are revealing that pilot error causes approximately 80% of aviation mishaps. But, apply a bit more aggressive critical analysis into the type of human errors occurring highlight the fact that task saturation, lack of situational awareness, and checklist errors are the leading factors. Although stick and rudder errors still occur due to poor piloting skills or deficiencies in training, the majority of the human errors are linked to the pilot's mental abilities. Current USAF fighters are pushing the limit of the pilot's ability to collect and comprehend enormous amounts of information. The cumulative effects of these technologies, which were intended to increase situational awareness and lethality, are in actuality responsible for the loss of situational awareness due to task saturation. The focus of this research will be on pilots mental abilities and identifying known limitations within the cognitive process. But, innovative information technologies and other ergonomic efforts within the cockpit will also be looked at because it is impossible to look at the cognitive perspective in isolation. We must also look at the interaction the mind has with physical characteristics of a fighter aircraft. Renovating the vehicle in which the checklist information is communicated to pilots could be a potential solution to fight task saturation, susceptibility to spatial disorientation and overall mental errors in today's cockpit.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA387109
Entities
People
- Patrick J. Doherty
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College