Airborne Data Link Study Report

https://doi.org/10.21949/14036181996PDFTech ReportDOT/FAA/CT-TN95/62Air traffic controlMessages (Communications)SimulationUser interfaces (Computer science)Human factorsPersonnel performanceAirline pilotsData collectionEvaluationAircraft navigational aidsControl display unitsCrew alertingData LinkDisplay locationSituational AwarenessRehmann, Albert J.Mogford, Richard H.CTA IncorporatedFederal Aviation Administration Technical Center (U.S.)NTL-AVIATION-Air Traffic ControlBTS Data DirectoryThis report represents evaluations of Data Link products and services in a simulated aviation opearation. The study addresses key issues related to alerting schemes for Data Link messages, positioning of Data Link displays, and mode of presentation of Data Link messages. The comparison of response times of two alerting schemes, a nondistinctive alert and a nondistinctive alert with an annunciator lamp, did not favor one over another. The forward-mounted Data Link display led to less time required to respond to Data Link messages over aft-mounted, although this difference was not statistically significant. The aft-mounted display was also rated as higher in workload and lower in visibility by crews. Pilots preferred digitized speech over a text only presentation of messages. The availability of Data Link significantly reduced the amount of controller radio communication with pseudopilots and simulator pilots. The subjective effort, workload of pilots, and fuel burn were not affected by the Data Link capability. However, pilots raised concerns about reduced confidence, safety, and situational awareness with Data Link.84