Aeronautic pilot training and augmented reality

Abstract

A pre-flight checklist requires in-depth technical knowledge of the aircraft, including its dashboard, avionics, instruments, functions and cabin layout. To obtain up-to-date certification, students training to be a pilot or advanced pilot must be completely familiar with each instrument and its position on the flight panel. Every second spent searching for the location of an instrument, switch or indicator can waste time, resulting in a poor start-up procedure and possibly a safety hazard. The objective of this research was to obtain preliminary data to determine whether the use of augmented reality as a human interface for training can help pilots improve their skills and learn new flight panel layouts of different aircraft. The methodology used was the human-centred design method, which is a multidisciplinary process that involves various actors who collaborate in terms of design skills, which includes individuals such as flight instructors, students, and pilots. A mobile/tablet application prototype was created with sufficient detail on the flight panel of a Cessna150, an aircraft used in training flights at the Aero Club of Santa Catarina. The tests were applied in Brazil and the results indicated good response and acceptance from the users.