Investigating pilot performance using mixed-modality simulated data link.
OBJECTIVE
General aviation (GA) pilot performance utilizing a mixed-modality simulated data link was objectively evaluated based on the time required in accessing, understanding, and executing data link commands. Additional subjective data were gathered on workload, situation awareness (SA), and preference.


BACKGROUND
Research exploring mixed-modality data link integration to the single-pilot GA cockpit is lacking, especially with respect to potential effects on safety.


METHODS
Sixteen visual flight rules (VFR)-rated pilots participated in an experiment using a flight simulator equipped with a mixed-modality data link. Data link modalities were text display, synthesized speech, digitized speech, and synthesized speech/text combination. Flight conditions included VFR (unlimited ceiling and visibility) or marginal VFR flight conditions (clouds 2,800 ft above ground level, 3-mile visibility).


RESULTS
Statistically significant differences were found in pilot performance, mental workload, and SA across the data link modalities. Textual data link resulted in increased time and workload as compared with the three speech-type data link conditions, which did not differ. SA measures indicated higher performance with textual and digitized speech data link conditions.


CONCLUSIONS
Textual data link can be significantly enhanced for single-pilot GA operations by the addition of a speech component.


CONCLUSIONS
Potential applications include operational safety in future GA systems that incorporate data link for use by a single pilot and guidance in the development of flight performance objectives for these systems.
Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA. jlancast@vt.edu
Jeff A
JA
Lancaster
John G
JG
Casali
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001288:Attention; D001359:Aviation; D001364:Awareness; D003626:Data Display; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012449:Safety; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis; D014584:User-Computer Interface; D014743:Videotape Recording; D014785:Vision, Ocular; D014887:Weather; D016526:Workload