FEATURE AT A GLANCE: Our research was aimed at validating the staffing concept for a single-operator radar station. Our review of empirical research revealed causality and impact of operator fatigue and the vigilance decrement. We concluded that the single-operator platform was appropriate for the monitoring task, and we imposed subsequent standards for staffing and shift length. We propose several methodologies for the prediction, assessment, and abatement of fatigue for extended vigilant shift work.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the learning curve associated with complex flight behavior (i.e. instrument approaches) for both conventional and SVS display systems. Thirty student pilots who had not yet earned their private pilot license were presented with minimal information about instrument approaches and were trained to fly a precision approach using either the SVS or conventional display. Flight performance, measured by time within the FAA ATP standard across training trials, was significantly higher in the SVS condition for the first trial and during the three performance trials. Log function learning curves show faster learning in the SVS condition than the conventional condition. Differences in learning curves have implications for the development of training curricula, certification guidelines, and training/operations costs.

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