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Physiologic responses of pilots flying high-performance aircraft
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|March 1, 1987
Summary
Physiologic responses to stress in F-4 fighter pilots during surface attack training (SAT) missions were studied. While some cardiac changes occurred, pilots were not found to be significantly physiologically stressed.
Area of Science:
- Aerospace Medicine
- Human Physiology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Fighter pilots experience significant physiological stress during demanding training missions.
- Understanding the impact of high-G maneuvers and mission profiles on aircrew is crucial for safety and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the physiological responses of F-4 fighter pilots and aircrew to surface attack training (SAT) missions.
- To assess biochemical markers and electrocardiogram (EKG) changes indicative of physiological stress.
Main Methods:
- Biochemical analysis of HDL-cholesterol, LDH, CPK, and myoglobin levels pre- and post-mission.
- Continuous EKG and transcutaneous PO2 monitoring during mission phases (briefing, preflight, inflight).
- Recording of personal history and habits of participants.
Main Results:
- No significant changes observed in HDL, CPK, or LDH isoenzymes.
- Myoglobin levels decreased by up to 50% in some participants.
- EKG showed ST elevations, depressions, T wave inversions, and arrhythmias in some pilots; others exhibited increased heart rate.
Conclusions:
- Despite some observed cardiac EKG variations and myoglobin level changes, F-4 fighter pilots engaged in SAT missions were not found to be significantly physiologically stressed.
- The study suggests that the physiological demands of these specific SAT missions may not exceed the adaptive capacity of the aircrew.