Aviation Performance Research Articles

Enabling fast discharge of Li-ion batteries via electrolyte formulations for urban air mobility applications

High-power discharge requirements are critical for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) used in electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles that are increasingly considered in urban mobility. This investigation places a particular emphasis on understanding the impact of electrolytes on discharge processes and rate capability. We aim to compare the discharge behavior of LiBs using a conventional electrolyte (Gen 2: 1.2 M LiPF6 in EC:EMC) and the dual salt LiTFSI-LiBOB-based electrolyte. We carefully examine the profiles of charging and discharging, the behavior during extended cycles, impedance spectroscopy results, and the characteristics of the electrode surface. Our research findings demonstrate the complex relationship between the composition of electrolytes and the specific high-power discharge requirements of eVTOL systems. This research highlights the importance of customizing electrolyte compositions to optimize energy storage density while simultaneously enabling higher power extraction to enhance performance in short-range electric aviation.

Optimizing Aerofoil Design: A Comprehensive Analysis of Aerodynamic Efficiency through CFD Simulations and Wind Tunnel Experiments

This study explores the aerodynamic properties of different aerofoil shapes and their performance under varying flow conditions to identify the most efficient design based on lift-to-drag ratio, stall behaviour, and overall aerodynamic efficiency. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations, several aerofoil profiles were analysed at different angles of attack and flow speeds. These simulations were validated through wind tunnel experiments, offering a comprehensive understanding of aerofoil performance in real-world scenarios. The combination of CFD analysis and wind tunnel testing enabled a thorough assessment of each aerofoil shape, leading to the discovery of a specific aerofoil with a high lift-to-drag ratio and stable performance at high angles of attack. These results have significant implications for the design of wings and blades in aerospace and aeronautical applications, improving fuel efficiency and performance in both aviation and wind energy sectors. Additionally, dynamic roughness shows potential in reducing separation bubbles, but further investigation is needed to assess its effectiveness at higher angles of attack and elevated Reynolds numbers. Understanding the scalability and practical application of dynamic roughness in real-world scenarios is essential. Current research on surface modifications like dimples and riblets lacks optimized configurations for varying conditions. More research is needed to understand the interaction between surface geometries and the boundary layer, particularly at higher angles of attack and Reynolds numbers. Combining experimental and numerical methods can provide a comprehensive understanding of flow control techniques. The limited research on applying flow control strategies to wind turbine blades indicates a significant opportunity to improve wind energy efficiency. Future studies should focus on optimizing multiple techniques and addressing practical challenges, such as durability, cost-effectiveness, and integration into existing systems. Investigating the cost-effectiveness and durability of these modifications for long-term use will be vital for their successful adoption in the industry. Expanding research to include the effects of environmental factors like temperature and humidity will offer a more complete understanding of flow control in various operating conditions. By addressing these gaps, advancements in aerodynamic performance can be achieved, benefiting the aerospace and wind energy sectors.

Evaluating air route performance with context-dependent data envelopment analysis: A case study in Taiwan

The aviation industry has a key role in international trade activities. Most studies measure aviation performance based on airlines or airports. However, the frontline operation is delivered via air routes and more operating characteristics can be revealed with route-based performance evaluation. Further, the traditional data envelopment analysis (DEA) approach cannot rank performance in a particular context which represents an efficiency frontier built by decision making units (DMUs). Therefore, this study uses a context-dependent DEA approach to measure and rank the performance of air routes with a case study of 112 international routes from two airlines in Taiwan. Model results identify eight performance levels with most air routes at efficiency performance level 2 and level 3 and most route destinations in East Asia (e.g., Japan). The results of this study can inform operators about a clear relationship between performance and potential markets as well as improvement strategies.

A scenario based approach to optimizing cost-effectiveness of physician-staffed Helicopter Emergency Medical Services compared to ground-based Emergency Medical Services in Finland

ObjectivesSince Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) is an expensive resource in terms of unit price compared to ground-based Emergency Medical Service (EMS), it is important to further investigate which methods would allow for the optimization of these services. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of physician-staffed HEMS compared to ground-based EMS in developed scenarios with improvements in triage, aviation performance, and the inclusion of ischemic stroke patients.MethodsIncremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was assessed by comparing health outcomes and costs of HEMS versus ground-based EMS across six different scenarios. Estimated 30-day mortality and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were used to measure health benefits. Quality-of-Life (QoL) was assessed with EuroQoL instrument, and a one-way sensitivity analysis was carried out across different patient groups. Survival estimates were evaluated from the national FinnHEMS database, with cost analysis based on the most recent financial reports.ResultsThe best outcome was achieved in Scenario 3.1 which included a reduction in over-alerts, aviation performance enhancement, and assessment of ischemic stroke patients. This scenario yielded 1077.07–1436.09 additional QALYs with an ICER of 33,703-44,937 €/QALY. This represented a 27.72% increase in the additional QALYs and a 21.05% reduction in the ICER compared to the current practice.ConclusionsThe cost-effectiveness of HEMS can be highly improved by adding stroke patients into the dispatch criteria, as the overall costs are fixed, and the cost-effectiveness is determined based on the utilization rate of capacity.

NON-TECHNICAL SKILLS IN THE CIVIL AVIATION SECTOR

Purpose: This study aims to identify and present a framework of non-technical skills for the civil aviation sector. Theoretical Framework: This study critically evaluates and identifies the non-technical competences in the aviation sector that promote superior performance among employees. Design/Methodology/Approach: We conducted a literature review of scientific journals and official documents from the aeronautics sector to achieve the aim of this study. In the first phase, a critical analysis was conducted of the concepts of soft and non-technical skills. In the second phase, we analyzed various general soft skills models and non-technical skills models in the aeronautics sector. Findings: At the end of the study, an integrative framework of 15 non-technical skills for the civil aviation sector is proposed: assertiveness, leadership, verbal communication, critical thinking, trust, interpersonal relationships, situational awareness, ability to solve problems, flexibility and adaptability, responsibility, time management, decision-making skills, workload management, teamwork, and stress management and resilience. Research, Practical & Social Implication: The Study provides a practical framework for the assessment and development of people, contributing to advances in aviation safety and performance. Originality/Value: This study, which provides a comprehensive understanding of non-technical skills in the civil aviation sector, fills a significant gap in the literature when skills manage human resources. It also offers a practical framework for their assessment and development, thereby contributing to advances in safety, security, and aviation performance.

Data Analytics and Organizational Performance of Kenya Civil Aviation Authority

: Organizational performance, a pivotal metric determining its sustainability and standing among stakeholders and shareholders, was the focal point of investigation in this study within the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and its relationship with data analytics. Four specific objectives were established: to evaluate the impact of descriptive analytics on KCAA's organizational performance; to assess the influence of prescriptive analytics on the same; to understand the relationship between predictive analytics and KCAA's organizational performance; and to scrutinize the effect of diagnostic analytics on KCAA's organizational performance. The study drew upon three established theoretical frameworks: the Resource-Based View (RBV), the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), and the Schumpeterian Innovation Theory. The research encompassed 1400 technical and operational staff across KCAA's headquarters in Nairobi, Moi International Airport in Mombasa, and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, along with airline operators and pilots. A pilot study, conducted with 30 respondents, ensured the reliability and validity of the research instrument. Reliability tests yielded a Cronbach alpha coefficient averaging 0.79, indicating strong reliability, while validity tests confirmed the instrument's validity, with Average Variance Extracted (AVE) values surpassing the 0.5 threshold. The primary study involved 300 randomly selected participants, utilizing questionnaires for data collection. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were employed for data analysis, revealing a strong positive correlation among variables. Specifically, various types of data analytics displayed positive significance: Descriptive Analytics (β = 0.133, t = 2.046, p < 0.05), Prescriptive Analytics (β = 0.198, t = 3.146, p < 0.05), Diagnostic Analytics (β = 0.190, t = 3.089, p < 0.05), and Predictive Analytics (β = 0.120, t = 1.961, p = 0.05). Diagnostic tests affirmed the absence of multi-collinearity, data normality, and heterogeneous data. Respondents collectively acknowledged the significant impact of data analytics on KCAA's organizational performance, with the study concluding that KCAA had not fully leveraged data analytics, leading to the recommendation of a policy framework prioritizing their ongoing big data ICT initiatives, and advocating for regular implementation of diagnostic analytics to enhance aviation performance, employee engagement, and overall organizational success. 
 Key Words: Data Analytics, Descriptive Analytics, Prescriptive Analytics, Diagnostic Analytics, Predictive Analytics, Organizational Performance

Hearing loss impacts aviator performance and cognitive workload during simulated flight

Hearing loss can render an aviator more susceptible to the adverse effects of degraded communication signals and consequently lead to an increased allocation of mental resources to hear (referred to as listening effort). Army aviation hearing standards, which are primarily based on pure tone and speech recognition test scores in quiet environments, do not necessarily predict the functional impact of hearing loss. The Army has recently adopted a new Military Operational Hearing Test (MOHT) to assess the functional impact of hearing loss. The current study aimed to validate the MOHT, specifically for aviators, and measure subjective workload, task performance, and physiological workload across different simulated hearing loss conditions in both clinical and flight simulator settings. Participants were Army aviators with normal hearing thresholds and underwent clinical testing using the MOHT for normal and hearing loss conditions. In addition to audiometric data, flight performance data were collected from pilots operating a full-motion UH-60 Black Hawk flight simulator for different levels of workloads and compared across the different hearing loss conditions. Subjective and physiological measurements of cognitive workload during simulated flight were also collected. Findings from this study will be leveraged in developing future protocols for aeromedical standards and evaluating hearing loss mitigation strategies using various headset technologies.

EE129 The Estimated Cost-Effectiveness of Physician-Staffed HEMS in Finland

Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) play an important role in prehospital care of the critically ill, and have several advantages compared to ground ambulance units. Since the unit cost of HEMS is higher than traditional ground-based Emergency Medical Services (EMS), it is important to further investigate the impact of HEMS and asses the conditions that would allow for the optimization of these services. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of physician-staffed HEMS compared to Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance-based EMS under current practices and in developed scenarios with various improvements in patient selection and aviation performance.

A data analytics framework for anomaly detection in flight operations

In the air transport system, there has been a continuous effort to develop policies, tools, and methodologies that increase and standardize safety levels across the entire commercial aviation market, while also enhancing operational efficiency. Furthermore, there is a current focus on proactive approaches for aviation performance management. Within this context, data mining initiatives such as anomaly detection have become more prominent. Dealing with anomalies is a natural step for achieving the goals regarding operational safety and efficiency, as anomalies are often related to hazardous and inefficient operations. In this work, we propose a systematic flight data analytics framework for anomaly detection in flight operations in order to provide a comprehensive and reusable pipeline for model building, application, and explanation. The solution is designed to be applicable to both online and offline regimes and at multiple scales, while also building on domain-expert analysis. We demonstrate the framework applicability in two scenarios of routine flight operations monitoring considering both airline and air traffic management perspectives. In the first one, the framework is applied to aircraft performance data within an unsupervised learning setting with a density-based clustering approach for anomaly detection in landing operations at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (KMSP). The results are compared with those obtained with exceedance-based methods used in the current practice, revealing the detection of operationally significant anomalies beyond the benchmark. In the second case study, we apply the framework on flight tracking data within a supervised learning setting with the development of an autoencoder classifier for offline anomaly detection in terminal airspace arrival operations at Sao Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (SBGR). Additionally, supervised learning models are developed for anomaly explanation. The autoencoder classifier was able to detect operationally significant anomalies, while the explanatory models provided novel insights about contributing factors to the anomalies identified. For instance, we learned that anomalous arrival trajectories are more likely to be associated with landing operations on runway 27 under wind scenarios, with an increase in the odds ratio of 62% and 58% for tailwinds and headwinds, respectively. In addition, we also observed a positive association between anomalies and wind gusts situations.

Enhanced microwave absorption performance originated from interface and unrivaled impedance matching of SiO2/carbon fiber

Carbon fiber (CF) is a research focus due to its high performance in aviation, aerospace, and defense. However, its inherent high electrical conductivity makes it impedance mismatched. Herein, a material was prepared by grafting and coating SiO2 on short-cut carbon fiber (SCCF). The structure of SiO2 layer coated on the surface of SCCF brings about a stronger synergy of multiple loss mechanisms such as interface polarization and dipole polarization. It is shown that with the increase of SiO2 content, it has a significant optimizing effect on the impedance matching of SiO2/SCCF composites, and the SiO2 layer structure increases the loss mechanisms of interface and dipole polarization. At 2 vol% filling ratio and 6.35 GHz frequency, corresponding reflection loss (RL) value was −29.3 dB. Meanwhile, the SiO2/SCCF composite achieves an ultra-broadband electromagnetic wave absorption performance with an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 12.3 GH. Therefore, this work provides a strategy for designing efficient and lightweight CF-based composites with electromagnetic wave absorption performance.

Electrophysiological Data and Aviator Performance: Identifying Measures for Operator State Monitoring

In an effort to identify physiological measures to be used for identifying aviator operator state, a study was completed evaluating electroencephalograph (EEG) data recorded during simulated flight. Eight Army aviators participated in the study. EEG data were recorded during a baseline and high workload flights. Correlational analyses examining the relationship between EEG data and flight performance data found a relationship between frontal alpha activity and altitude deviations. The findings suggest that EEG is a candidate measure for detecting operator state in rotary-wing aviators.

Civil aviation safety evaluation based on the principle of international civic aviation organization (ICAO)

This article analyzes the document and literature relating to civil aviation safety in Indonesia. The commercial airlines has rapidly growth since the government stipulated the open air policy in 2000s. However, the fatal rate accident of aviation simultanously had recently and it made Indonesian airlines were banned by the European Union in 2007. Safety performance of Indonesian civil aviation has been concerned since then. Using international regime approach to assess the country's aviation performance based on the principle of International Civic Aviation Organization (ICAO), this study reveals that although generally the aviation management had already met the standard requirements, there are still several aspects that should be considered as drawbacks that might implicated the fatally accident in the future. This article found the parallel result of reexamination of aviation accident caused by human factor is related to the profile of accident rate toward the safety compliance indicator using International regime of ICAO. The article finally provides some recommendations: increasing safety compliance index and surveillance on the safety obligation, and an aviation policy restoration that includes safety and security components into a synergetic regulation package to achieve a proper safetytiness of Indonesian civic aviation.

Application of the Hypergraphs Theory to Solve the Problem of Optimizing Network Performance in Civil Aviation

Application of the Hypergraphs Theory to Solve the Problem of Optimizing Network Performance in Civil Aviation

Towards a flexible and generalizable computational model-based framework for mitigation of spatial disorientation in sensory-deprived environments

PurposeSpatial disorientation (SD), an incorrect perception of one's orientation, position or motion, jeopardizes the safety and performance of aviators, astronauts, and professionals in other domains such as SCUBA and firefighting. Active countermeasures can assist navigators in real-time with maintaining orientation – and may mitigate the deleterious impacts of SD. A necessary component of such a system, however, is a method by which to estimate possible SD being experienced, and detect when intervention is warranted. Computational tools utilizing models of human spatial orientation perception provides an unobtrusive means to estimate the spatial awareness of the navigator. Previously proposed computational detection methods, however, have been designed to capture specific SD events that are commonly experienced by fixed-wing aircraft pilots. We propose a generalizable computational framework that can be adapted to different environments, vehicles (e.g., spacecraft) and operating theatres. ProposalWe leverage the state-of-the-art Observer model to compute spatial orientation perception in sequence with an integrative algorithm to capture the severity of orientation misperception over time. A Bayesian likelihood model is used for system and parameter identification of the proposed algorithm candidates we have developed. A novel two-part experimental methodology is proposed to first gather necessary data for informing likelihood estimators (e.g., estimates of SD), and then assess the potential system benefits (e.g., safety, control performance) while using a well-tuned computational detection tool in real-time. ImplementationSimulated motion stimuli were used in the development of algorithm candidates and optimization techniques. Our simulation results and application of the generalized framework to various navigation environments demonstrate the utility of capturing all state parameters related to orientation perception (e.g., acceleration, angular velocity, zenith etc.) which enables the system to capture the continuum of SD involving a variety of different stimuli. As a proof-of-concept effort, we have developed an experimental paradigm representing a helicopter piloting scenario in the presence of mission-related distractions. ConclusionThe proposed computational tool, when appropriately fitted for the environment of relevance, may be used to trigger real-time countermeasure interventions for the goal of mitigating adverse impacts of SD events in operational environments. SD can manifest in drastically different ways given the sensory environment, such as an absence of a tonic loading of gravity during spaceflight. The integrative and generalizable nature of this framework may facilitate translatable progress in SD mitigation research across the many domains which it plagues.

Route-based performance evaluation for airlines – A metafrontier data envelopment analysis approach

The international aviation industry is essential for both passengers and commodities. Previous literature tends to evaluate aviation performance from the perspective of airlines or airports. However, each route faces a different operating environment and thus has a different profit portfolio. Therefore, a route-based performance evaluation can better reflect the range of operating characteristics by considering the differing characteristics of routes. This study conducted an empirical analysis of 112 international routes from two Taiwanese airlines. To first identify the key variables that have a significant impact on airline performance, a systematic literature review was conducted using a meta-analysis approach. This study then used those key variables to measure route-based performance with data envelopment analysis (DEA) modeling. Finally, k-medoids cluster analysis was used to explore successful factors for air route performance as complementary research to the DEA modeling. Model results show three groups of routes can be clearly identified by considering route efficiency. Each group has very distinct route characteristics (e.g., Asian routes vs US routes) and some route planning recommendations can be developed. The results of this study can help operators and policy makers improve operating performance and identify key factors for route development and planning.

Energy, exergy, environmental and sustainability assessments of jet and hydrogen fueled military turbojet engine

In this study, energy, exergy, environmental and sustainability assessments of jet and hydrogen (H2) fueled J79-GE-17 turbojet engine are done. The results are compared for hydrogen and JP-8 fueled modes. It is found that aviation performance metrics are better for hydrogen utilization mode. By using hydrogen fuel instead of JP-8 fuel; the specific thrust and power rates reduce 1.037%, the specific fuel consumption decreases 63.987% the energy efficiency of the turbojet engine reduces from 30.293% to 29.979%, the exergy efficiency of the combustion chamber component increases 10.581%, and the turbojet engine exergy efficiency rises from 28.54% to 30.73%. The sustainability of the hydrogen fuel utilization for the J79-GE-17 turbojet engine is higher than JP-8 fuel utilization mode. The hydrogen utilization decreases the emission index as 73.36% and the environmental impact as 99.05% comparing to JP-8 usage mode. As a result, hydrogen fuel utilization in this engine is a better choice for emissions and environment, while it can be used as effective as JP-8 fuel.

Human performance and limitations in aviation: physiological and behavioural aspects

Human flight, since its origins, has been seen as an appropriate scenario for a whole series of issues related to the physics of flight, the architecture and safety of aircraft, as well as the physiology and psychology of pilots and passengers. During the First World War, the British Royal Flying Corps conducted a study aimed at clarifying the causes of many plane crashes. The results were very surprising. For every hundred pilots who died, only two had been shot down by the enemy, eight were victims of structural failure of the aircraft, while ninety deaths were attributable to errors induced by the negative balance between performance and limitations of the pilots themselves. Despite the progress of aircraft engineering and avionics, the man-machine relationship has always been the subject of speculation. The search for an appropriate know-how has not always managed to mitigate the “aeronautical fatalities”. Topics described in this paper highlight the reason for some useful needs for safe and efficient flights. Until new mutations of a molecular nature, the pilot is still a human being whose performance will have to deal with his limitations. The human factor in aviation still remains core of a heated debate.

The effect of an embargo, sanctions and culture on safety climate: A qualitative view from aviation maintenance in the MENA region

Introduction: Safety climate assessment is a key measure of organizational safety. A strong safety climate is integral to the high safety performance in aviation. Most survey instruments that purport to measure safety climate are derived from evidence obtained in developed countries in the west. It is rare for these studies to examine the influence of macro-environmental factors on safety climate, and rarer still in countries found in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Method: The researchers conducted 28 semi-structured interviews with experienced aviation maintenance engineers from a national carrier in the region. The interview questions were derived from an extensive review of existing studies of safety climate. Data from interview transcripts were coded, creating a data structure using participant quotes for 1st order codes and arriving at three aggregate dimensions: organizational commitment to safety, organizational safety practices and social relationships and their consequences. Results: Commercial considerations influenced negatively organizational commitment to safety. Organizational safety practices were weak. There was a lack of safety training, a lack of resources to support safe working, poor safety communication, and a failure to report safety issues. Strong friendships were developed through working together in teams. This adversely influenced the reporting of errors and the punishment of violations. Discussion and conclusion: The apparently weak organizational safety climate reported here was attributed to financial constraints following the imposition of economic sanctions and embargos, and to the influence of Arabic cultural values that privilege family connections and the importance of maintaining harmony in social relationships that precludes punishment. Practical application: Financial constraints inevitably limit resources for safety and encourage prioritization of production. Arabic cultural values inhibit the development of a ‘just’ culture and a ‘reporting’ culture and challenge the universal adoption of approaches for promoting organizational safety developed in the West.

Determinants and strategies behind commercial airports' performance in general aviation

Although general aviation has become increasingly important for commercial airports to diversify aeronautical activities and improve overall performance, little empirical research has been devoted to the topic so far. Whereas other aspects of commercial airports' business (low-cost traffic, scheduled traffic, cargo, commercial revenue) have been widely investigated, to our knowledge this is the first research focusing on the conditions and strategies driving general aviation performance. This paper aims to examine the determinants of general aviation operations in commercial airports and the relationships between determinants and strategies developed by market leaders to gain a competitive advantage. An explanatory sequential mixed method was used. First, a panel data analysis was carried out on all the 44 Italian commercial airports that have operated general aviation flights over the period 2007–2018, to understand which variables have an effect on general aviation traffic. Second, a qualitative investigation was used to highlight how airport companies that have achieved success exploit these variables to outperform competitors. The combination of both quantitative and qualitative data, and the patterns observed across cases, led to the presentation of eight theoretical propositions, which were summarized in a preliminary model.

Performance Analysis of Yayasan Jasa Aviasi Indonesia as One of The Pioneer Flight Operators in Papua Province

This study discusses YAJASI's Operational Performance as one of the pioneer flight operators in Papua, as a basis for supporting pioneer aviation operations in the rural areas of Papua. This research uses qualitative method with descriptive analytic technique. The presence of YAJASI supports the community development program as one of the providers of air transportation services to provide convenience and fluency in community development efforts in the rural areas of Papua. YAJASI's aviation performance effort outlines the needs of air transportation and conducts medical help to evacuate people in the depths. To achieve the objectives expected by Yayasan Jasa Aviasi Indonesia (YAJASI), it is necessary to pay attention to the recruitment of prospective national candidates for aviators, aircraft maintenance technicians and avionics. This can be supported by training programs for national personnel who have met the screening and recruitment requirements. In addition, it is necessary to provide aircraft as an operational support to meet the demand for air transport services