Dimensions of Flight Crew Performance Decrements: Methodological Implications for Field Research

Operational flight crew research into the etiology of performance breakdown in the cockpit requires an integrated methodology sensitive to both individual and group performance factors. This paper provides an introduction to some of the relevant dimensions and an overview of previous research. The discussion focuses upon the classic concern with individual human performance parameters, shortcomings of this approach, the need for research dealing with the performance characteristics of the group, and the implications of advanced technology for future aircrew performance issues. By way of example, a current NASA study is described which seeks to address some of these issues.