| Human error has been cited as a factor in many aviation incidents. A Skill-, Rule-, and Knowledge-based (SRK) taxonomy has been shown to be an important framework for understanding the decision making process within large-scale technological systems. This exploratory field study examined the role of decision styles in aircrew information processing behavior for a high-performance, multi-role military aircraft. Using an advanced aircraft high-fidelity simulator and realistic flight scenarios, experienced test pilots flew a flight including takeoff, climb, cruise, aerial refueling, approach and landing, under both normal and emergency conditions. The SRK-based decision making taxonomy within an operational environment, coupled with decision style, were shown to influence both the individual's and team behaviors. These behaviors in turn have a notable impact on overall mission success of this complex human-machine system. Implications of the results for aircrew coordination and communication assessment during aircraft design and development are discussed. |
