Cognitive distraction while multitasking in an aircraft simulator

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a conversation and interacting with an electronic tablet on the performance of 14 pilots in a PC based flight simulator. Performance was assessed using flight parameters and control strategies. The additional conversation and dual conversation and tablet tasks had an effect on how well participants could maintain a target airspeed. Additionally, phase of flight was an important consideration, with pilots being less prone to distraction on final approach when assessed on maintaining a target airspeed and vertical speed. Final approach also resulted in a different flight control strategy when compared to other phases of flight. This suggests an attentional shift while landing resulting in better performance despite the cognitive load of the distractions remaining constant throughout the experiment.