Pilot workload under non-normal event resolution: Assessment of Levels of Automation and a Voice Interface

This study evaluated the effects of increased automation and voice interface on pilots’ ability to resolve a non-normal flight deck event where automation performed all, some, or none of the checklist tasks. In addition, the number of voice messages was varied to inform the pilot of all, some, or none of the automation’s actions. Subjective workload ratings indicated that pilots’ workload was reduced when they were able to interact with the automation similarly to how they interact with a copilot, compared to conditions with too much, too little, or no automation. Pilots strongly preferred to have the automation perform tasks, and also to hear the associated voice messages. The results suggest that in order for increased automation to be an effective aid to the pilot, the appropriate level of automation needs to be determined. Pilots showed a clear preference for automation that performed a limited set of tasks and allowed them insight into the automation’s actions.