Charter pilots sought for automation study

Automation in the context of the study includes autopilots, autothrottles, and flight directors, and MITRE (on behalf of the FAA) seeks to understand how the use of automated systems impacts manual flying skills. MITRE will provide $75 compensation to study participants who complete a one-hour telephone interview in the coming weeks. Pilots who meet the study criteria may email MITRE to arrange the conversation.

MITRE has sought pilot input for various human performance studies over the years, and the nonprofit company has conducted extensive research on behalf of the FAA (and other government agencies) that has led to technological advances. MITRE's work has benefitted general aviation, as highlighted in the September 2018 issue of AOPA Pilot, a list of advances and products that includes creation of the 978 MHz universal access transceiver that is used by many pilots for ADS-B services and compliance. The research teams at MITRE have contributed to various other technologies that enhanced safety, reduced pilot workload, and made operations more efficient. AOPA has supported MITRE's work on many occasions over the years, including advocating for the FAA to enable a MITRE-developed system for electronic transmission of instrument clearances in 2017.

MITRE noted in its invitation to pilots that the current research project seeks their input "to better understand current practices, challenges, and opportunities for improvement in the use of automated systems, with the goal of supporting safer flight operations."