10/12/01

AU MODEL MAY IMPROVE SECURITY OF COMMERCIAL FLIGHT TRAINING

AUBURN -- A statistical model developed by Auburn University aviation researchers may improve security as part of the selection and training of pilots for commercial airlines as well as screen others who want to learn to fly large jets.

The university has discussed the use of this model with several major airlines and the military, says Ray Hamilton, an assistant professor in Auburn's Department of Aviation Management and Logistics, where the model was developed.

Based on data of pilots with exceptional flight records, the model establishes a base-line score upon which combinations of flight training and testing could be developed.

This Commercial Pilot Selection Model could be used before granting access to use Line Observed Flight Training, the type of simulator used in Florida by the terrorists who on Sept. 11 hijacked the jetliners that were crashed into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, Hamilton said,

"Airlines currently only use temperament tests to identify psychological problems in pilots, and there currently is no screening measure in place to determine pilot temperament for LOFT simulators," Hamilton said. "This model can establish a predictive measure that could be used to identify qualified pilots, training deficiencies, as well as potentially fraudulent pilots."

Hamilton also stressed that the new model can evaluate how pilots will react under stress.

"This model will allow potential pilots to be screened for negative reactions to stress in making critical in-flight decisions," he added.

The model combines the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and the Mach V Attitude Inventory, Hamilton said. Questions are designed to identify applicants based on team orientation, leadership skills, and affective coordination of critical decision making under stress.

The base-line data of pilots with exceptional flight records scores would be used to identify groups of scores, such as those pilots who are approved to fly; those who are not approved, but need more training; and those that are not approved based on their temperament and ability to make critical decisions.

Hamilton has been working with Bob Ripley of the Department of Aviation Management and Logistics in AU's College of Business and Lee Golden of the University of Portland to develop the new model. The initiative will be expanded to include researchers from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and the University of Western Michigan, he said.

"When we used the model to test a group of military pilots, we were 98 percent accurate in determining who was approved to fly and who needed more training," Hamilton said. "Right now, anyone can walk into a LOFT training center and pay to receive flight training in commercial jet aircraft.

"This model will allow both airlines and cockpit resource management trainers to screen trainees for tailored training based on their needs as well as enable the screening out of applicants who lack the appropriate temperament for multi-crew commercial flight training."

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oct01:AU-aviation

CONTACT: Hamilton, 334-844-4908.