Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

This study examined the influence of the amount one plays video games on theworkload and situational awareness (SA) of student pilots at an aeronauticaluniversity. Twenty-five student pilots, with and without video gaming experience,participated in simulated traffic pattern flights with varying workload levels.Following these simulations, they self-evaluated their workload using the NASATLXscale. Workload levels were manipulated by the amount of aircraft traffic,the volume of air traffic control communications, and clearance changes for theaircraft (i.e., multitasking). The study found significantly higher self-reports ofworkload in the high-workload scenario than in the low-workload scenario. Selfreportedhigher workload was inversely correlated with SA. Gamers were morelikely to have better SA in the traffic pattern than non-gamers. These findingsunderscore the significant mental workload often experienced by aircraft pilotsduring periods of increased cognitive demand.

Comments

Presented at the 23rd International Symposium on Aviation Psychology, May 27-30, 2025, Hosted by Oregon State University

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