Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Online Virtual Reality Networked Control Laboratory Applied in Control Engineering Education
Published on: February 23, 2024
ATC-lab(Advanced): an air traffic control simulator with realism and control
Selina Fothergill1, Shayne Loft2, Andrew Neal3
1School of Psychology, University of Queensland, 4072, Brisbane, QSLD, Australia. selina@psy.uq.edu.au.
Abstract:
ATC-lab(Advanced) is a new, publicly available air traffic control (ATC) simulation package that provides both realism and experimental control. ATC-lab(Advanced) simulations are realistic to the extent that the display features (including aircraft performance) and the manner in which participants interact with the system are similar to those used in an operational environment. Experimental control allows researchers to standardize air traffic scenarios, control levels of realism, and isolate specific ATC tasks. Importantly, ATC-lab(Advanced) also provides the programming control required to cost effectively adapt simulations to serve different research purposes without the need for technical support. In addition, ATC-lab(Advanced) includes a package for training participants and mathematical spreadsheets for designing air traffic events. Preliminary studies have demonstrated that ATC-lab(Advanced) is a flexible tool for applied and basic research.
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