Multidimensional scaling analysis of controllers' perceptions of aircraft performance characteristics

[摘要] Thirty full performance level (FPL) en route air traffic control specialists participated in an investigation of the salient features of aircraft mix, a proposed sector complexity factor. Controllers rated the "familiarity" (i.e., frequency of encounter) of 30 selected aircraft. They also provided weight class, engine number, engine type, cruising speed, climb, and descent rate estimates for each aircraft. A matrix of squared Euclidean distances derived from summary estimates (i.e., means of speed, climb, and descent) was used to construct a multidimensional scaling model of the aircraft. Multiple regression interpretation revealed that Dimension 1 was related to engine type, whereas Dimension 2 was associated with weight class. The position of elements in the derived stimulus space indicated that controllers may develop performance-related prototypes through the use of multiple cues derived from a number of sources.

[发布机构] FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine - Civil Aerospace Medical Institute

[关键词] Air Traffic Control;Complexity;Workload;Decision-Making