Speech Recognition of Cochlear Implant Users Inside a Noisy Helicopter Environment

Abstract

In this study, we tested whether the speech recognition, through radio communications, of cochlear implant (CI) users inside a noisy helicopter cockpit is adequate for safe flight. Method: Speech recognition tests (sentences, numbers and disyllables) through a very-high-frequency radio were administered to 12 CI users in a soundproof booth, inside a helicopter with the engine turned off and turned on. Results: In quiet environments, radio communications were impacted only for disyllable intelligibility, but in noisy situations, all tests were affected. Conclusions: CI subjects did not achieve the auditory levels recommended by the International Civil Aviation Organization.