Assessment of Coordination Demand for Aircrew Coordination Training

Abstract

This investigation attempted to augment current aircrew coordination training approaches by developing an assessment tool to measure coordination demand associated with specific flight tasks. Using training and operations manuals, a questionnaire was developed to assess the coordination requirements of 38 routine and nonroutine tasks associated with military cargo helicopter operations. A sample of active-duty pilots was requested to estimate the amount of coordination demand imposed by each task. The findings indicated that pilots employed a reasonable range in responding to task items. The overall pattern of results was consistent with expert opinions and earlier research. In addition, a cluster analysis based on the coordination demand ratings indicated the presence of three distinct clusters of flight tasks. These findings are discussed in terms of their utility in creating scenarios for aircrew coordination training as well as providing guidelines for instructor feedback.