How Well Can You Predict Skill Levels in Flying a VTOL Simulator?

Various pilot selection test batteries have been developed recently, including one by the U. S. Air Force Human Resources Laboratory (AFHRL), to assess a variety of basic human attributes that appear to contribute to aircrew effectiveness after training. The objective of this research was to compare scores from modified AFHRL basic attributes tests against speed and proficiency in learning to fly a simulated hypothetical thrust-borne vehicle, the Behavioral Engineering Laboratory's MicroGraphic Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) Simulator. Based on analyses, the PortaBAT tests appear to be reliable predictors of VTOL radial-error performance.