Comparison of Three Angle of Attack (AOA) Indicators: A Usability Study

Authors

Camilo Jimenez, University of Central FloridaFollow
Claas Tido Boesser, University of Central FloridaFollow
Florian Jentsch, University of Central FloridaFollow

Abstract

Angle of Attack is an important aeronautical concept used to understand the aerodynamic performance of an aircraft during different flight stages. The Federal Aviation Administration has indicated the importance of developing and encouraging the use of AOA based systems to increase flight safety. This study examined the usability of three different AOA indicators. The goal was to identify which of these indicators is better suited for student pilot training. Instructor pilots were recruited for a series of flights, in which they were asked to perform different maneuvers while using AOA indicators. The data show significant differences between the indicators with a general preference for a vertical representation of AOA.

Recommended Citation

Jimenez, Camilo; Boesser, Claas Tido; and Jentsch, Florian (2016) "Comparison of Three Angle of Attack (AOA) Indicators: A Usability Study," International Journal of Aviation Sciences (IJAS): Vol. 1: Iss. 2, Article 3.
Available at: https://repository.fit.edu/ijas/vol1/iss2/3