The Complexity Construct in Air Traffic Control: A Review and Synthesis of the Literature.

reportActive / Technical Report | Accession Number: ADA297433 | Open PDF

Abstract:

Air traffic control ATC operations are the primary activity of the National Airspace System. This report summarizes the literature on ATC operations which has identified factors related to ATC complexity. ATC complexity has two components sector complexity and traffic complexity. A model is proposed to explain the relationship between ATC complexity factors and controller workload. This review summarizes ATC complexity factors identified in the literature and methods used to measure them. In addition, the literature on information display, controller cognitive strategies, and individual differences is addressed with respect to ATC complexity. Metrics used to assess complexity are described. Airspace factors that correlate with controller performance and workload are presented. Controller information processing strategies that change in response to workload are reviewed. It is concluded that further research should emphasize how to apply these factors to improve sector design techniques and manage controller workload.

Author(s):
Mogford, R. H. ; Guttman, J. A. ; Morrow, S. L. ; Kopardekar, P.
Author Organization(s):
CTA INC MCKEE CITY NJ
Descriptive Note:
Technical note,
Pagination:
0032

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Report Number(s):
DOT/FAA/CT-TN95/22
Contract/Grant Number(s):
DTFA03-86-C-00018
Monitor Series:
TN95/22, XD
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_3_Force Application; JCA_3.1.1_Maneuver to Engage; JCA_3.1_Maneuver; JCA_5.5_Direct; JCA_5.2_Understand; JCA_5.2.3_Share Knowledge and Situational Awareness; JCA_5.6.1_Assess Compliance with Guidance; JCA_5.6_Monitor; JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_5.5.1_Communicate Intent and Guidance; JCA_6_Net Centric; JCA_5.5.2_Task; JCA_6.1.3_Switching and Routing; JCA_6.1_Information Transport; JCA_1_Force Support; JCA_1.2_Force Preparation; JCA_6.4.1_Secure Information Exchange; JCA_1.2.7_Experimentation; JCA_4.2.1_Manage Supplies and Equipment; JCA_4.2_Supply
Communities of Interest:
No COI(s) Identified
Descriptor(s):
*AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS, CONTROL, STRATEGY, TRAFFIC, SYNTHESIS, COGNITION, DISPLAY SYSTEMS, RESPONSE, AIR SPACE, DOCUMENTS, WORKLOAD, INFORMATION PROCESSING
Field(s)/Group(s):
Air Navigation and Guidance
Report Date:
1995 Jul 01