Understanding aviation operators’ variability in advanced systems

Papanikou, Maria, Kale, Uktu, Nagy, András and Stamoulis, Konstantinos (2022) Understanding aviation operators’ variability in advanced systems. DUNAKAVICS, 10 (2). pp. 65-79. ISSN 2064-5007

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Abstract

Purpose Research has commonly addressed human factors and advanced systems in broad categories according to a group’s function (e.g., pilots, air traffic controllers, engineers). Accordingly, pilots and air traffic controllers have been treated as homogeneous groups with a set of characteristics. Currently, critical themes of human performance in light of systems’ developments focus the emphasis on quality training for improved situational awareness (SA), decision making, and cognitive load. We posit that to this end a greater understanding of the operators’ groups is required. Design/methodology/approach Since key solutions center on the increased understanding and preparedness of operators through quality training, we deploy an iterative mixed methodology to reveal generational changes of pilots and air traffic controllers. 46 participants were included in the qualitative instrument and 70 in the quantitative one. Preceding their triangulation, the qualitative data were analysed using NVivo and the quantitative analysis was aided through descriptive statistics. Findings The results show that there is a generational gap between old and new generations of operators. Although positive views on advanced systems are being expressed, concerns about cognitive capabilities in the new systems, training and skills gaps, workload and role implications are presented. Practical implications The practical implications of this study extend to different profiles of operators that collaborate either directly or indirectly and that are critical to aviation safety. Specific implications are targeted on automation complacency bias and managing information load, and training aspects where quality training can be aided by better understanding the occupational transitions under advanced systems. Originality In this paper we aimed to understand the changing nature of the operators’ profession within the advanced technological context, and the perceptions and performance-shaping factors of pilots and air traffic controllers in order to define the generational changes.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	TYPOLOGIES; Air Traffic Controllers; pilots; Advanced systems; Quality training
Divisions:	Műszaki Intézet > Gépészeti Tanszék
Depositing User:	Gergely Beregi
Date Deposited:	23 Jun 2022 07:08
Last Modified:	23 Jun 2022 07:08
URI:	http://publication.repo.uniduna.hu/id/eprint/887
MTMT:	32671954

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