Assessing Cognitive Processing and Human Factors Challenges in NextGen Air Traffic Control Tower Team Operations


== Abstract ==

Previous research of Terminal Radar Control Facilities and Standard Terminal Automation Replacement Systems interactions by the authors examined how combined NextGen digitized technology affects air traffic controller functions. Applying their updated SHELL model, human factors implications on the Tower Team before and after implementing NextGen technology were examined, focusing on cognitive loading and automated functions affecting each team member. A survey examined where cognitive difficulties occur when controllers are responsible for multiple screen views, remote airfields or helipads, and digitized cameras and blind spots. Scanning challenges were identified where local traffic, ground operations, and data converge onto one screen, and when attention is diverted to distant screens. Also studied were automatic aircraft handoffs and potential for missed handoffs, and, assessing changes from voice communication to text messaging for human error. Findings indicated a necessity for controllers to manage balanced tasking, vigilance pacing, and resource management.


== Original document ==

The different versions of the original document can be found in:

* [https://commons.erau.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2565&context=publication https://commons.erau.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2565&context=publication]

* [http://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/978-3-030-51369-6_39 http://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/978-3-030-51369-6_39],
: [http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-51369-6_39 http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-51369-6_39] under the license http://www.springer.com/tdm

* [https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-51369-6_39 https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-51369-6_39],
: [https://commons.erau.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2565&context=publication https://commons.erau.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2565&context=publication],
: [https://commons.erau.edu/publication/1448 https://commons.erau.edu/publication/1448],
: [https://academic.microsoft.com/#/detail/3038602892 https://academic.microsoft.com/#/detail/3038602892]