Comparing the Accuracy of Performing Digital and Paper Checklists Using a Feedback Intervention Package During Normal Workload Conditions in Simulated Flight

This study examined whether pilots completed airplane digital and paper checklists more accurately when they received post-flight graphic and verbal feedback. Participants were 6 college student pilots with instrument ratings. The task consisted of flying flight patterns using a Frasca 241 Flight Training Device which emulates the Cirrus SR20. An alternating treatment, multiple baseline design across pairs with reversal was used. Visual inspection and statistical analysis of the data suggests that paper checklist accuracy does not differ significantly from digital checklist accuracy during normal workload conditions. The results also suggest that graphic feedback and praise can be used to increase the extent to which pilots use both digital and paper checklists accurately