Air Traffic Controller Workload Impact by Integration of Datalink System in an Advanced Airport Controller Working Position

ELLEJMI, Mohamed; Dubuisson, Stephane; Bonnier, Marc; Lane, Roger · 2021 · Crossref

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe100711

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Summary

This study evaluates the impact of integrating the Controller Pilot DataLink Communication (D-TAXI) system into an Advanced Controller Working Position (A-CWP) on air traffic controller (ATCO) workload, situational awareness, and safety. Motivated by the need to reduce voice communication burdens and improve safety at busy airports, the research addresses the challenges of introducing new human-machine interfaces (HMI) within the SESAR program. The D-TAXI concept aims to replace non-time-critical voice instructions, such as taxi routes and push-back clearances, with standardized data link messages. The validation experiment was conducted in December 2013 at Airbus in Toulouse, utilizing a high-fidelity simulation infrastructure. This included the EUROCONTROL Integrated Tower Working Position simulator, a Parkair routing server, and an Airbus A340 cockpit simulator. Four ATCOs from France, Italy, and Germany, along with eight pilots, participated in twelve one-hour simulation runs. The scenarios were based on Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport traffic, with 85% of aircraft equipped for data link. The study employed subjective analysis methods, including direct observation, post-exercise debriefings, and specific questionnaires: SASHA for situational awareness and AIM-s for mental workload. Controllers rated their experiences on a six-point scale regarding utility, usability, safety, and workload. The results indicated that D-TAXI integration maintained acceptable levels of situational awareness. Tower Ground North controllers reported a "Good" level (mean 4.02), while Tower Runway controllers reported a "Very Good" level (mean 4.91). Although Ground controllers showed a slight decrease in situational awareness compared to baseline voice-only operations, the authors attributed this to initial training effects rather than system failure. Mental workload remained low for both Ground (mean 1.84) and Runway (mean 1.43) controllers, falling between "None" and "Very little." Regarding safety, ATCOs positively assessed the system, noting reduced misunderstanding probabilities and no critical safety issues. However, Apron Managers were more skeptical, likely due to limited experience with the concept. The study concludes that D-TAXI integration has a minimal negative impact on mental workload and can enhance airport safety by reducing communication errors. Controllers adapted quickly to the mixed voice and data link environment. However, the authors identify significant human factors concerns: the loss of auditory cues regarding pilot readiness and the reduction of "silent communication" awareness for other users monitoring the frequency. Recommendations include further investigation into features allowing users to subscribe to relevant data link exchanges to mitigate situational awareness gaps.

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• workload measurement

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• Empirical Findings: self report data