Utility of Motion and Motion-Cueing to Support Simulated In-Flight Rotary-Wing Emergency Training

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the utility of three flight simulator motion conditions (fixed-base, motion-cueing seat, and full-motion) to support training of in-flight rotary-wing emergency recovery procedures. Military helicopter pilots were randomly assigned to two of three possible motion configurations and subject to three in-flight emergencies. Pilot handling ratings indicate wide acceptance of the training device in each of the three configurations. Subjective workload assessments showed no difference between motion configurations. Results will be discussed with reference to the importance of pilot simulator acceptance during flight training.