A Review of Pilot Workload Measurement Techniques Used on the A-10 Single Seat Night Attack Test Program

A three-phase flight test program to evaluate the A-10 Single Seat Night Attack (SSNA) aircraft was conducted at the Air Force Flight Test Center (AFFTC), Edwards AFB, CA. An important objective of the SSNA testing was to assess, and where possible, measure pilot workload. The techniques utilized during the test program to quantify workload were: An objective measurement of task performance, control activity, and physiological status data, and the Subjective Workload Assessment Technique (SWAT). The use of objective techniques represented the first application in a flight test environment and an initial attempt to validate their use as work-load metrics. Both objective and subjective methods were of significant value, but both techniques had limitations and shortfalls. Lessons learned affecting the application of the techniques to on-going and future flight test programs are described.