Cognitive Engagement Profiling of Pilots in High-Speed, High-Threat Scenarios

This study investigated pilot cognitive engagement patterns across diverse flight conditions using electroencephalography (EEG)-based measurements in a high-fidelity rotary-wing simulation environment.

A total of 8 experienced U.S. Army test pilots completed 24 flights across 3 distinct route designs using the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Ames Vertical Motion Simulator, with airspeeds ranging from 120 to 240 kn. Analysis focused on EEG Beta/(Alpha + Theta) ratios as indicators of changing cognitive engagement over time.

Analyses revealed distinct cognitive engagement patterns across routes: highly variable individual responses in routes with changing navigation demands, more consistent cognitive engagement in systematic route designs, and intermediate variability in mixed-demand routes. Airspeed effects on cognitive engagement became particularly pronounced above 200 kn, though these effects varied significantly by route and individual pilot. Temporal analysis demonstrated evolving patterns of cognitive adaptation, with routes eliciting different progression patterns over extended flight periods. Regression analysis showed that EEG Beta/(Alpha+Theta) values increased significantly during all three routes, with mean increases ranging from 0.0051-0.0146.

These findings provide quantifiable metrics for optimizing route design, developing personalized training approaches, and implementing real-time monitoring systems for enhanced aviation safety and performance. D'Alessandro M, Mackie R, Berger T, Ott C, Sullivan C, Barnett J III, Curry I. Cognitive engagement profiling of pilots in high-speed, high-threat scenarios. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2025; 96(9):819-828.