Emotional Intelligence and Emotional State Effects on Simulated Flight Performance

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Aviation Psychology
• Human Factors

Background:

• Emotional factors are critical in flight training performance.
• Understanding the influence of emotions on flight cadets is essential.
• Emotional intelligence (EI) is a key area of interest in aviation training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and simulated flight performance (SFP).
• To explore the mediating role of emotional state in the EI-SFP relationship.
• To identify specific dimensions of EI and emotional states influencing flight training outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Ninety undergraduates participated in 9 hours of simulated flight training.
• Emotional intelligence, neuroticism, anxiety, and tension were assessed using validated scales.
• Simulated flight performance was evaluated using the Delphi Experts Grading Method; mediation analysis was employed.

Main Results:

• Emotional intelligence showed significant negative correlations with neuroticism, tension, and anxiety.
• Emotional state acted as a mediator between EI and SFP.
• Tension specifically mediated the effects of EI's Self Emotion Appraisals and Regulation of Emotion dimensions on SFP.

Conclusions:

• EI is strongly correlated with emotional states like neuroticism, tension, and anxiety.
• EI influences SFP both directly and indirectly through emotional states, with tension playing a key mediating role.
• Promoting EI and managing emotional states are crucial for enhancing flight training performance.