| This research evaluated controller's operational errors (OEs) in the Air Traffic Control environment. It consisted of two exploratory studies. The first one was a classification of errors and contextual factors. The second one was an in-depth look at OEs that co-occurred with a Traffic Alert Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) Resolution Advisory (RA). The results provided a systematic characterization of OEs, with potential use to prioritize future research and interventions. Patterns of error in centers and terminal airspace were different. The absence of data controllers and developmental controllers were associated with higher proximity between aircraft in the incident, although the results were not conclusive. The results were not sufficient to establish any causal influence of RAs on OEs. The study found evidence of deficient pilot-controller communications during RA events increasing the likelihood of receiving vertical clearances in opposite direction to the RA. The findings suggested the need for down linking RA information. |
