Presentation
Exploring Generation Z Pilots' Perception of Automation: A Preliminary Interview Study
SessionTR4: The Role of Situational Awareness, Metacognition, and Automation in Specialized Field Training
DescriptionPilots today learn to fly on aircraft with highly sophisticated automated systems, such as the G1000. Although automation can reduce workload, over-relying on this technology can lead to a decrease in situational awareness, complacency, and a loss in manual flying skills (Parasuraman, 2000; Parasuraman et al., 2000; Parasuraman & Wickens, 2017; Taylor et al., 2020). In turn, instructor pilots are faced with the challenge of teaching students how to leverage a system that can affect their performance, both positively and negatively. The purpose of this study was an initial exploration of the strategies and challenges instructor pilots face while training students on automation. Ten Certified Flight Instructors Instrument (CFII) (M = 24.1, SD = 2.28) completed an interview centering around their perspectives on automation training. The median flight hours were 969.6 hours (M = 1070.92, SD = 455.88). The key findings from this study include 1) instructors emphasized that students’ manual flying skills will decrease the more they rely on automation and 2) students’ experiences with automation in the flightdeck, either positive or negative, influences their decision for subsequent use. The results highlight a need for ensuring training and designs encourage operators to develop an appropriate reliance on technology.
Event Type
Lecture
TimeThursday, October 22nd11:30am - 11:45am PDT
Location