Simulated Hearing Loss on Speech Recognition, Flight Performance, and Workload in Aviators

Hearing loss can compromise U.S. Army aviators' performance, safety, and situational awareness, resulting in increasing mental workload and listening effort. This study evaluated simulated hearing loss on performance and cognitive workload among Army aviators.

A mixed-effects linear regression study design was used. A total of 21 aviators underwent clinical audiological testing and simulated flight performance assessments. Simulated hearing loss and workload were manipulated to investigate their effects on speech recognition, flight performance, and subjective workload. Flight simulator routes included normal hearing and simulated hearing loss conditions for both high and low workloads. Task load questionnaires were administered for subjective workload assessments and compared across conditions.

Speech recognition scores decreased with increasing levels of hearing loss. In-flight speech intelligibility declined in high workload conditions, with a 26% decrease for mild hearing loss and a 40% decrease for severe hearing loss. High workload conditions degraded flight performance and response times to a secondary task which was exacerbated by simulated hearing loss. Workload scores validated increased workload with simulated hearing loss. No significant findings were observed on the hearing assessment.

Findings suggest hearing loss negatively impacts speech recognition and flight performance, especially under high workloads. These results support the importance of addressing hearing loss in aviators. Further research is needed to determine if the clinically adapted Modified Rhyme Test can reflect the impact of hearing loss on aviator performance. Noetzel J, Henry P, Mackie R, Cave K, Stefanson JR, Hale JK, Andres K, Jones H. Simulated hearing loss on speech recognition, flight performance, and workload in aviators. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2025; 96(4):269-278.