VALIDATION OF ADVANCED FLIGHT SIMULATORS FOR HUMAN-FACTORS OPERATIONAL EVALUATION AND TRAINING PROGRAMS

摘要

The increased speed with which new technologies are being introduced into the modern aviation operational environment has made it necessary to find new ways of evaluating certification, human-factors, operational, procurement and safety issues. We no longer have the luxury of an extended development program, followed by an evolutionary period of product maturation into more complex forms, with an extended useful life. Modern technology delivers fully formed products to the marketplace with rapid wide distribution and, in many cases, a limited operating life due to forced obsolescence caused by new advances, designs, and technologies. Aviation has always been a technology driver, and this has not changed, so the introduction of new communication, navigation, surveillance, and display technology is moving forward at a rapid pace. Aviation is also a very competitive business, and maximum benefit comes from the early implementation of innovative new products and applications. The emergence of Airbus as a viable competitor has extended this competition to the manufacturing arena. Airbus designs use the "fly-by-wire" (electronic) control as opposed to the more traditional designs used by the major US manufacturers. Being a relative newcomer to the scene (approximately 30 years), they have been able to start with a clean slate in so far as design and facilities are concerned, so they have been able to capitalize on the benefits of new technology on the flight deck and in the factory.