A Preliminary Investigation into Cognitive Aptitudes Predictive of Overall MQ-1 Predator Pilot Qualification Training Performance

Abstract

United States Air Force MQ-1 Predator remotely piloted aircraft pilots are critical assets in a challenging, high-risk, and rapidly evolving aviation career field. However, the Air Force has had difficulties over the past decade recruiting candidates with the "right stuff" and filling Predator pilot vacancies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate computer-based intelligence and neuropsychological testing on training candidates (n = 235) obtained during medical flight screening and prior to training that distinguishes elite vs. adequate MQ-1 qualification training performance. Findings reveal a combination of cognitive aptitudes that distinguish elite levels of training performance among those selected for this career field. Results may be utilized to improve personnel selection and aeromedical screening procedures for identifying suitable candidates for this high-risk, high-demand occupation.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 06, 2015
Accession Number
ADA624314

Entities

People

  • Emily Skinner
  • Julie Swearingen
  • Krista Traut
  • Tanya Goodman
  • Wayne Chappelle
  • William R Thompson

Organizations

  • United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Autonomy
  • Biomedical
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Air Force
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Aircrafts
  • Computers
  • Data Analysis
  • Descriptive Analytics
  • Education
  • Flight Training
  • Governments
  • Information Processing
  • Information Science
  • Minority Groups
  • Personnel Selection
  • Reasoning
  • Remotely Piloted Vehicles
  • Training

Readers

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  • Naval Personnel Management
  • Team-Based Human-Centered Cognitive Task Decision Making and Information Performance.