Abstract
The variability in training and evaluating uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) pilots presents a challenge for establishing industry standards. Despite FAA standards for qualification and use of flight simulation training devices in manned-pilot training (Code of Federal Regulations Part 60), no such standards exist for UAS training. One consideration in developing UAS training standards is the incorporation of situations that require multisensory (visual, auditory, tactile) attention and multitasking. Mimicking the cognitive load experienced in real-world UAS operations will increase the effectiveness of simulation training standards.
This study addresses these gaps in both the literature and training of UAS pilots, by developing a computer-based task designed to replicate UAS monitoring challenges. In the procedure, participants use manual controls to keep a visual virtual aircraft aligned on a continuously generated path while simultaneously listening to competing streams of auditory information. Participant periodically transcribe spoken letters presented in one ear in a text box. Concurrently, UAS-related background chatter (e.g., weather updates, NOTAMs) is presented in the other ear, creating a realistic soundscape that demands selective attention. Periodically, a warning light prompts participants to shift focus between the two auditory streams, requiring a manual response to altitude-change commands in the previously unattended audio channel. Performance is measured through path-tracking accuracy, transcription error rates, and response accuracy to altitude commands that collectively assess attention allocation under dynamic, high-workload conditions. This paradigm not only simulates the cross-sensory multitasking environment common to UAS operations but also highlights cognitive mechanisms, such as auditory filtering and task-switching, that drive pilot proficiency.
Findings from this work will inform more robust criteria for simulated and real-world UAS pilot training. By emphasizing realistic workload challenges, divided attention procedures in training can cultivate more competent and adaptable UAS pilots, ultimately elevating industry-wide training and evaluation standards.