A FITS Scenario-Based Training Program Enhances GPS Pilot Proficiency in the General Aviation Pilot

General Aviation (GA) pilots working toward their instrument rating in aircraft equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) technology often receive little, if any, formal flight instruction on the use of GPS technology. The goal of this study was to empirically evaluate a single pilot crew, FAA Industry Training Standards (FITS) scenario-based training program designed to increase the knowledge and safety of pilots using this technology by focusing on GPS mode awareness, situational assessment, risk and time management, and situational awareness. This study included forty-six pilots who had completed their instrument rating in a GPSequipped aircraft within the last 12 months. The results of this study revealed that utilizing a GPS FITS scenariobased training program for GPS training significantly reduced omission errors and incorrect or inappropriate use of the GPS when compared to controls. These results support the premise that a specific GPS FITS-based training course be required for pilots unfamiliar with GPS navigation, and those pilots should be required to obtain a logbook endorsement before acting as pilot in command of aircraft with IFR-approved GPS units.

[1]  David C. Nagel,et al.  Human factors in aviation , 1988 .

[2]  Mary Niemczyk,et al.  Flightdeck Automation Problems: Perceptions and Reality , 1997 .

[3]  R R Amalberti.  AUTOMATION IN AVIATION: A HUMAN FACTORS PERSPECTIVE. IN: HANDBOOK OF AVIATION HUMAN FACTORS , 1999 .

[4]  Charles E. Billings,et al.  Aviation Automation: The Search for A Human-centered Approach , 1996 .

[5]  M R Endsley,et al.  Level of automation effects on performance, situation awareness and workload in a dynamic control task. , 1999, Ergonomics.

[6]  B. Schwartz.  Psychology of Learning and Behavior , 1978 .

[7]  Paul A. Craig,et al.  Best Evidence for the FAA Industry Training Standards (FITS) Program for Pilot Training in Technically Advanced Aircraft , 2006 .

[8]  Nadine B. Sarter,et al.  How in the World Did We Ever Get into That Mode? Mode Error and Awareness in Supervisory Control , 1995, Hum. Factors.

[9]  Francis H. Ayers.  THE APPLICATION OF SCENARIO BASED RECURRENT TRAINING TO TEACH SINGLE PILOT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT (SRM) UNDER THE FAA INDUSTRY TRAINING STANDARDS (FITS) PROGRAM , 2006 .

[10]  Paul A. Craig,et al.  Scenario-based Private/Instrument Syllabus versus Traditional Maneuver-Based Syllabi::A Preliminary Descriptive Analysis , 2005 .

[11]  Paul A. Craig,et al.  Ab Initio Training in the Glass Cockpit Era: New Technology Meets New Pilots: A Preliminary Descriptive Analysis , 2005 .

[12]  Raja Parasuraman,et al.  Humans and Automation: Use, Misuse, Disuse, Abuse , 1997, Hum. Factors.