Pilot Performance Using Head-up and Head-down Synthetic-Vision Displays for SA CAT I Approaches

Abstract

Thirteen two-person crews flew 39 approaches each to runway 34R at Seattle-Tacoma airport in a 737-800 level D flight simulator using both head-up and head-down synthetic-vision displays. The within-subject design manipulated display type, runway-lighting configuration, ambient illumination, and two combinations of decision height and runway visual range associated with Special Authorization Category I and II approaches. Data collected/analyzed included training trials, instrument landing system tracking, touchdown point and vertical velocity at touchdown, and pilot opinions on the adequacy of the display formats for the specific task. Results indicated that there was a small but reliable difference in touchdown point between day and night approaches (longer in day) and that distance from centerline was also slightly affected by display type. Mean vertical velocity at touchdown was also affected slightly. Data indicated that there appeared to be no operationally significant differences as a function of display type or other variables examined.