Human Performance Assessments in the Context of Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Implementations.

Abstract

Abstract: Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) have received more and more attention in the aviation sector in the past decade. Current discussions probably focus less on “if”, but more on the question of “how” UAS can be implemented into airspace traffic in the long run. In combination with technological advancements and increasing automation, the role of humans in Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) changes and is different from manned aviation. Nevertheless, human operators stay central as managers and decision makers in these complex systems. Regarding operational concept developments, it is therefore highly essential to consider human factors (HF) adequately from the very beginning. The main objective of this study was to thoroughly assess the variables which will determine human performance (HP) within the context of RPA implementation. To specifically examine aspects related to the tasks, roles and responsibilities of an RPA system crew, different approaches were pursued and evaluated more closely, e.g., a workshop with air traffic controllers and safety personnel was conducted, the Human Performance Assessment Process (HPAP) – a standardized methodology developed for SESAR projects – was applied on a concept development, and data on job requirement analyses were looked into. The findings of our study demonstrate the importance of considering HF in the context of RPA implementation. Based on our output, recommendations and actions to mitigate potential issues are proposed and documented.