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Article
A Change in the Dark Room: The Effects of Human Factors and Cognitive Loading Issues for NextGen TRACON Air Traffic Controllers
Advances in Neuroergonomics and Cognitive Engineering
  • Mark D Miller, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
  • Sam Holley, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
  • Bettina Mrusek, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
  • Linda Weiland, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Submitting Campus
Worldwide
Department
Graduate Studies
Document Type
Article
Publication/Presentation Date
1-1-2019
Abstract/Description

By 2020 all aircraft in United States airspace must use ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast) Out. This is a key component of the Next Generation (NextGen) Air Transportation System, which marks the first time all aircraft will be tracked continuously using satellites instead of ground-based radar. Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System (STARS) in the Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) is a primary NextGen upgrade where digitized automation/information surrounds STARS controllers while controlling aircraft. Applying the SHELL model, the authors analyze human factors changes affecting TRACON controllers from pre-STARS technology through NextGen technologies on performance. Results of an informal survey of STARS controllers assessed cognitive processing issues and indicates the greatest concern is with movements to view other displays and added time to re-engage STARS.

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-20473-0_16
Publisher
Springer Nature Switzerland
Location
Washington, D.C.
Paper Number
AISC 953
Number of Pages
12
Citation Information
Mark D Miller, Sam Holley, Bettina Mrusek and Linda Weiland. "A Change in the Dark Room: The Effects of Human Factors and Cognitive Loading Issues for NextGen TRACON Air Traffic Controllers" Advances in Neuroergonomics and Cognitive Engineering Vol. 953 (2019) p. 155 - 166
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/linda-weiland/3/