Initial Student Attention-Allocation and Flight-Performance Improvements Based on Eye-Movement Data

Abstract

At the onset of their flight careers, novice pilots often lack clarity regarding the standard attention-allocation pattern. Therefore, to enhance the efficiency of initial flight training, it is crucial for students to develop a comprehensive understanding of flight control and attention-allocation behavior during the learning process. In this study, flight-performance data and eye-movement data from experienced instructors in no-power stall scenarios were collected to create an attention-allocation training course. An experimental group underwent the attention-allocation training course, while a control group followed the traditional teaching curriculum. The disparities between the flight performance and eye-movement indices of the two groups after they completed their respective courses were compared to evaluate the effectiveness of the training. The finding indicate significant differences between the speed losses, altitude losses, and mean course deviations of the instructors and the control group; these indicators had p-values of 0.01, 0.004, and 0.001, respectively. Moreover, significant differences were observed between the altitude losses and mean course deviations of the instructors and the experimental group; these indicators had p-values of 0.006 and 0.001, respectively. The experimental group, which underwent attention-allocation training, exhibited eye-movement indices that closely resembled those of the instructor group, and its instrument scanning was more strategic, thereby resulting in improved flight performance from that of the control group. Additionally, correlations were observed between flight-performance indices and eye-movement indices of the students. Overall, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of an attention-allocation training course designed specifically for a no-power stall scenario. It effectively enhanced the training outcomes of novice pilots, promoted an appropriate allocation of attention to instrument displays, introduced a novel approach to flight training, and ultimately contributed to aviation safety.