Documentation of Sensory Information in the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Abstract : For manned aircraft, the presence of multi-sensory inputs is a given. Pilots of manned aircraft might not even be aware of the availability of several different types of sensory inputs occurring at the same time. However, it is likely that each type of input has a reinforcing effect on the others that allows for a rapid diagnosis and response of both normal and unusual events in the cockpit. The situation for the pilot of an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) is much different. UAS pilots receive information regarding the state and health of their aircraft solely through electronic displays. This report includes a comparison of manned sensory information to sensory information available to the unmanned aircraft pilot, a review of remediations for sensory deficiencies from the current UAS inventory, a review of human factors research related to enhancing sensory information available to the UAS pilot, and a review of current FAA regulations related to sensory information requirements. Analyses demonstrated that UAS pilots receive less and fewer types of sensory information, compared with manned aircraft pilots. One consequence is the enhanced difficulty for UAS pilots to recognize and diagnose anomalous flight events that could endanger the safety of the flight. Recommendations include the incorporation of multi- sensory alert and warning systems into UAS control stations.