Investigating Pilot Performance Using Mixedmodality Simulated Data Link

Abstract

Research exploring new technology integration into general aviation (GA) cockpits is lacking, especially that which focuses on the capabilities and limitations of the single pilot. Sixteen visual flight rules (VFR) rated pilots were evaluated for data link communication performance using a flight simulator equipped with a mixed-modality simulated data link within one of two flight conditions. Modalities included textual, synthesized speech, digitized speech, and synthesized speech/textual combination. Flight conditions included VFR (unlimited ceiling, visibility) or marginal VFR (MVFR) flight conditions (clouds 2800 feet, threemile visibility). Evaluation focused on the time required accessing, understanding, and executing data link commands. Measures to evaluate workload, situation awareness, and subjective preference were also obtained. Results indicated performance, mental workload, and situation awareness differences across data link modalities and between flight conditions. Implications for operational safety in future systems that incorporate data link for use by a single pilot are discussed.

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