Air Transport Crew Tasking in an ATC Data Link Environment

Results of a timeline analysis of air transport crew tasking using the Mode-S data link for air traffic control (ATC) communications indicate that substantial pilot visual tasking increases could result from a traditional control and display unit (CDU) implementation of the data link system. While National Airspace System Plan (NASP) goals require implementation of Mode-S data link to support communications between automated ground and airborne systems, benefits of enhanced safety and greater air traffic personnel productivity will require careful application of human factors criteria in the design of the operator interface. Alternative means of data link crew interface should be considered to offload the vision channels, including investigation of speech technology.