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An Analysis of Mental Workload Involved in Piloting Tasks

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Part of the book series: Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems ((LNNS,volume 556))

Abstract

Most of the time, during high workload the available attention resource is less than the need. Thus, attention should be intently managed particularly for pilots operating aircrafts. In such situations work processes are accompanied by stress, time pressure and disruption, resulting in wasted human resources and physical and safety problems in piloting tasks. Therefore, mental overload due to increased work intensity reduces attention and performances. However, it is not the only situation that causes distraction for pilots. Sometimes, during periods of low workload pilots can be distracted from primary duties. This paper focuses on identifying the attentional tasks which require full or moderate attention, the way to manage the workload in piloting tasks, as well as solutions to prevent pilots from a possible overload resulting from an excess of workload. We examine the periods of flight where the workload may occur and review the main causes of the overload. We proceed to a cognitive classification of tasks and their time distribution. We suggest some solutions for workload management mainly based on awareness of unexpected events, things that may distract pilots from their essential tasks, prioritization and mental exercises.

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Acknowledgments

We acknowledge the support from NSERC- Alliance, CRIAQ, CAE, Bombardier, and BMU for funding this work.

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Correspondence to Maryam Ghaderi .

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Ghaderi, M., Ben Abdessalem, H., Frasson, C. (2023). An Analysis of Mental Workload Involved in Piloting Tasks. In: Krouska, A., Troussas, C., Caro, J. (eds) Novel & Intelligent Digital Systems: Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference (NiDS 2022). NiDS 2022. Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems, vol 556. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-17601-2_21

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