Abstract
Within some aircraft types, there are different variants that a pilot is permitted to fly on a single type rating. Previous research has investigated multi-variant flying on specific fleets, supporting the notion that differences should be proactively considered. Regulation describes the level of training pilots receive and this is based upon how different the variants are from one other. Recently, this training entered the spotlight, due to the tragic Boeing 737-Max accidents. This research further explored the human factors challenges and mitigations associated with multi-variant flying.
Twenty-eight pilots including Captains and First Officers with recent multi-variant operational experience at multiple airlines, were interviewed using a semi-structured technique. A rich and detailed data set was subsequently analysed using a thematic method, with themes identified and examined.
Whilst participants commented positively regarding multi-variant flying in the example used, the challenges of this were also highlighted and these differed from airline to airline, varying significantly as a result of fleet complexity, age, and commonality. Challenges were identified in terms of differences both within and between variants, information recall, navigation of variant information in manuals, and scheduling on multiple variants within the same day.
How variant challenges were routinely managed, from an individual and organisational perspective were described, with documentation, briefings and training raised, but often variable and in some cases lacking in key areas. Differences were identified between those who perceived receiving adequate training, and those who had not, as well as those operating within simple or complex fleets. A simple approach to identifying and comprehending differences was identified.
The results call for further research to explore the appropriateness of current regulation, considering fleet size, variability and fit, alongside industry recommendations. These include the provision of industry developed improved differences documentation and differences training, simulation replicating the fleet, and line training for all variants.
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Whitworth, B., Grant, R. (2023). Exploring the Challenges and Mitigations Associated with Operating Multi-variant Aircraft. In: Kurosu, M., et al. HCI International 2023 – Late Breaking Papers. HCII 2023. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, vol 14054. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-48038-6_30
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