Accommodating ATC System Evolution through Advanced Training Techniques

Abstract

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) expects air traffic volume and complexity to continue to increase, and with it the demand for air traffic control (ATC) services. The present controller training process and methods need to be enhanced to deal effectively with projected hiring increases, workforce changes, and operational changes anticipated in the future air transportation evolution. Advanced training techniques, such as scenario based instruction, voice recognition and synthesis and Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS) will reduce the time and costs required to attain Certified Professional Controller (CPC) status. Benefits such as increased flexibility in scheduling, more rapid response to facility staffing needs, and reduced stress on training resources such as instructors can be realized. The expected introduction of advanced ATC automation capabilities will affect the skills and knowledge mix of the controller workforce and may provide the opportunity for controller specialization that would result in increased efficiency while lowering overall costs. This paper summarizes the recent MITRE CAASD research into training methods, provides a high-level overview of the advanced ATC automation capabilities that could be introduced, presents recommendations for changes to the training process and its potential impact on training for both the current and future systems.

Human Factors Measurement for Future Air Traffic Control Systems

“…These changes will have undoubted consequences for how future ATCOs are recruited, selected, trained, and evaluated. Given the dynamically changing nature of human resource practices in future ATM systems, it is surprising that with some exceptions, recent literature in this field is scarce (Bolczak & Celio, 2005;Cavcar & Cavcar, 2004;JPDO, 2007;King, Manning, & Drechsler, 2007;Oprins, Burggraaff , & van Weerdenburg, 2006;Salden, Paas, van der Pal, & van Merrienboer, 2006).…”

Optimization of Air Traffic Control Training at the Federal Aviation Administration Academy

“…This technology can reduce training times and increase instructional quality via accurate and objective feedback [8]. In addition, ITSs facilitate student-driven learning by allowing for more independent operation, thus allowing a student to practice independently of an instructor and continually practice a problem area while still receiving informative feedback [1].…”

“…Simulation is one of the only methods currently available which gives trainees hands-on experience in learning such a high-skilled and detail-oriented occupation as ATC. However, as technology rapidly improves, current training devices can become outdated and less effective than when first implemented in a training program, leading to training inefficiencies and increased training times [1,2]. To reduce the effects of outdated simulators and course content, current simulation training practices must be evaluated and analyzed to identify inefficiencies, areas of improvement, and potential applications for new or updated simulation technologies.…”

New directions for air traffic control simulators: A discussion to guide the selection and renovation of simulators

“…development of artificial intelligence, image generation and projection equipment); needs for adaptations and enhancements in training delivery techniques due to new ATM concepts and practices (e.g. ATM automation and modernisation) (11) and needs for ATM system development itself.…”