Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Title

Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference (I/ITSEC)

Abstract

Urban air mobility (UAM) is a novel concept of air transportation using electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to move passengers and cargo within urban areas. UAM aims to facilitate a reduction in pilot training and the eventual transfer of pilot-in-command responsibility to automated systems on the aircraft. To achieve this, UAM is utilizing a simplified vehicle operations (SVO) concept, wherein there is an increase in autonomous systems in the aircraft and a simplification of display information (General Aviation Manufacturers Association, 2019). The SVO concept aims to ensure seamless coordination and execution of independent and joint pilot and automation functions to reduce the time and training required for new pilots to fly an aircraft. This aligns with the current focus in the military to accelerate training and reduce the time needed to complete training. However, much of SVO efforts are focused on the automation without emphasis on the reduction of information displayed. The current work aimed to conduct preliminary research towards understanding future information requirements for UAM pilots via an interviewbased study. First, a market survey was conducted to understand the current eVTOL aircraft configurations and trends in SVO pilot interfaces. Common trends identified included large glass displays, battery power information, and reduced displays. Next, an interview study was conducted with civilian and military helicopter pilots, eVTOL test pilots, military UAS operators, fixed-wing pilot, and an electric aircraft pilot to identify critical information requirements and to obtain pilot reactions to SVO pilot interface concepts, including what they foresee as the benefits and challenges. Findings from the interview studies illuminate benefits, challenges, and critical information requirements associated with traditional pilot interfaces and proposed UAM interface concepts. These preliminary results highlight areas for consideration in the design of future pilot interfaces for both commercial and military applications.

Publication Date

2022

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