Citation

Straussberger S, Schaefer D. Air Traffic Control Q. 2007; 15(3): 183-207.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Wiley in association with Air Traffic Control Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In this article researchers describe a simulator experiment as well as a field study of air traffic control (ATC) operators and the issue of monotony. In this particular environment, monotony is construed as air traffic repetitiveness coupled with air traffic complexity. ATC operators' levels of monotony were quantified using a number of metrics such as alertness levels corresponding to fatigue, workload, attentiveness, and concentration, as well as other performance and physiological indices. Subjective monotonous states, it was found, correspond to repetitive conditions, low dynamic density periods, and job-independent factors relating to each operator's disposition. A recommendation is provided for a composite indicator for operator monotony that will better aid airport operators as to the state of monotony among their ATC personnel. Suggestions are also given as to how to best reduce such monotony in future development of ATC operator-environment technologies.