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Multimodal workload assessment during simulator-based instrument flight training
Jiri Ulvr1, Petr Michenka1, Vladimir Smrz1
1Faculty of Military Technology, Air Force Department, University of Defence, Brno, Czechia.
Frontiers in Psychology
|July 29, 2026
Summary
This study shows multimodal workload assessment is feasible in flight simulators, revealing varied pilot responses to stress. Integrated measures can explore workload-performance links, but need more validation.
Area of Science:
- Aviation Psychology
- Human Factors Engineering
- Aerospace Medicine
Background:
- Pilot performance is affected by cognitive workload and stress.
- Assessing pilot workload during demanding tasks is crucial for training and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate multimodal workload assessment in simulator-based flight training.
- Explore workload response and performance differences across pilot training stages.
Main Methods:
- Utilized NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) for subjective workload.
- Employed continuous heart-rate monitoring for physiological response.
- Analyzed simulator flight parameters and calculated Workload Index (WI) and Performance Deviation Index (PDI).
Main Results:
- Observed significant inter-individual variability in workload, physiological activation, and performance.
- Found considerable overlap in indicators between different training groups.
- Noted that stable flight performance could occur despite high workload or activation.
Conclusions:
- Multimodal workload assessment is feasible in simulator flight training.
- Integrated psychophysiological monitoring can aid research on pilot workload adaptation.
- Exploratory WI and PDI metrics require further validation in larger cohorts.
