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Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. While classical risk factors are well described, the literature debates whether specific subgroups in the community have an increased risk of developing the condition. These include those who work as aircrew or in the defence forces. While occupational skin cancer is increasingly recognised, it is likely still under-reported. This narrative literature review explores the published literature on melanoma, focusing on aircrew and Defence Force members, as results have potential implications for these workers' selection, protection and surveillance. Many but not all studies show that aircrew and Defence Force members may have an increased risk of melanoma, but gaps in the literature are highlighted. In particular, much of the data reviewed is from several years ago and primarily relates to Northern Hemisphere settings. The importance of exploring the current context in the Australian setting to inform future practice is outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This paper aims at identifying the factors influencing performance in basic flight simulators in the selection of ab initio pilot candidates and to determine the incremental value of these flight simulators in predicting performance in flight training. Background: Several factors such as cognitive ability, personality, and demographic information are discussed to be associated with performance in basic flight simulators. Many commercial flight operations tend to refrain from using flight simulators in the selection of ab initio pilot candidates in favor of less expensive test batteries. Method: Study 1 uses 4,340 candidates in the selection of major European airlines to investigate the factors influencing performance in the basic flight simulator. Study 2 then uses 1,753 candidates to evaluate the incremental validity of the basic flight simulator in predicting issues in flight training. Results: Multiple task ability, gender, and previous flight experience are the strongest predictors of performance in the basic flight simulator. Still, the flight simulator shows significant incremental validity in predicting problems in flight training. Conclusion: These findings seem to justify the additional use of a basic flight simulator in the selection of ab initio pilot candidates. Despite a strong correlation with more economical multiple task ability tests, the flight simulator still shows incremental validity in predicting success in flight training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aviation English (AE) represents a noteworthy area of investigation within the realm of English for Specific Purposes (ESP), aimed at fostering English language competency among aspiring pilots. In this study, a simulation-based aviation English course was designed and implemented for improved learning gains. The present study took place at a tertiary educational institution, focusing on the analysis of AE vocabulary development, the readback performance of student pilots, and the examination of participants' perceptions of simulation-based training. Employing a mixed-methods sequential explanatory research design, data were gathered from 21 ab-initio pilots enrolled in the Pilotage Training program. The quantitative results showed that participants significantly improved their readback performance and AE vocabulary knowledge over the course of a semester. With regard to the qualitative results, student pilots overall perceived the simulation-based training as an innovative and effective method. The present study, therefore, constitutes a notable advancement in the AE research domain by documenting, for the first time, the application of simulation-based training in the aviation context. Moreover, the study offers insights into the implications for ESP practitioners and stakeholders in the aviation sector, along with recommendations for future research, which are delineated in the study's conclusion. • This study reveals improved AE vocabulary and readback in simulated environment. • It demonstrates the importance of robust language training for pilots. • Innovative use of Microsoft Flight Simulator enhances vocabulary learning. • It addresses readback proficiency challenges through rigorous methodology. • Qualitative analysis highlights simulation's role in reducing ESA & improving communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The visual approach is the most accident-prone phase of a flight, especially in low-visibility conditions. This preliminary study aimed to examine the effects of flight experience on pilots' decision-making and visual scanning pattern in low-visibility approaches. Twenty pilots were separated into two groups based on their flight experience and completed the high- and low-visibility approaches in balanced order using a high-fidelity flight simulator. Pilots' mental workload and visual scanning patterns were recorded via an eye tracker. The results showed that, compared to less flight-experienced pilots (20%, 3/15), experienced pilots (80%, 4/5) were more likely to make go-around decisions in the low-visibility approaches. Furthermore, they exhibited a more flexible and adaptable visual scanning pattern by quickly shifting their attention, as evidenced by decreased fixations and increased saccades. These findings suggest that the integration of visual scanning strategy and training solution with a marginally meteorological approach may enhance decision-making safety for novice pilots. PRACTITIONER SUMMARY: This study investigates the 'expertise effects' in visual scanning pattern, mental workload and decision-making among pilots with different levels of flight experience in a modern flight simulator. For safer decision-making, less flight-experienced pilots should enlarge their visual scanning span in a more unburdened manner, especially in low-visibility approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper discusses a case study of obtaining an airline pilot license in integrated training—the so-called "from zero to Airline Transport Pilot License". The environmental implications of simulator-based training were examined across multiple dimensions. Key areas of research include the reduction of harmful exhaust gases pollution associated with traditional flight training activities. Based on our analysis, it can be stated that increasing the use of Flight Simulation Training Devices in pilot training should be significant consideration. This approach brings many benefits, especially ecological ones. Changing the training program and increasing the use of flight simulators can result in a reduction of CO2 emissions by up to 70%. Based on country specific electricity factors, CO2 emissions during flight training in each EU country were calculated. Using Levelized Cost of Electricity average value to calculate training costs in EU countries depends on the mix of energy sources (wind, photovoltaics, carbon and gas). The findings highlight the significant ecological advantages of simulator-based training methods in mitigating the environmental footprint of aviation operations. By seeking to minimize environmental disruption and increase training efficiency, the adoption of simulators is a sustainable approach to pilot training that is consistent with global efforts to mitigate climate change and protect natural ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes a novel stochastic-skill-level-based shared control framework to assist human novices to emulate human experts in complex dynamic control tasks. The proposed framework aims to infer stochastic-skill-levels (SSLs) of the human novices and provide personalized assistance based on the inferred SSLs. SSL can be assessed as a stochastic variable that denotes the probability that the novice will behave similarly to experts. We propose a data-driven method that can characterize novice demonstrations as a novice model and expert demonstrations as an expert model, respectively. Then, our SSL inference approach utilizes the novice and expert models to assess the SSL of the novices in complex dynamic control tasks. The shared control scheme is designed to dynamically adjust the level of assistance based on the inferred SSL to prevent frustration or tedium during human training due to poorly imposed assistance. The proposed framework is demonstrated by a human subject experiment in a human training scenario for a remotely piloted urban air mobility vehicle. The results show that the proposed framework can assess the SSL and tailor the assistance for an individual in real time. The proposed framework is compared to practice-only training (no assistance) and a baseline shared control approach to test the human learning rates in the designed training scenario with human subjects. A subjective survey is also examined to monitor the user experience of the proposed framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Pilots are frequently exposed to thrombotic risk as a result of immobility from air travel. As hypoxemia is associated with secondary polycythemia, and polycythemia increases the risk of thrombosis, intermittent exposure to high-altitude hypoxic environments could escalate the risk of thrombosis in pilots. Our objectives were to find the prevalence of polycythemia in airplane pilots (primary outcome) and to assess associated risk factors of polycythemia (secondary outcome). METHODS: This study is a cross-sectional descriptive study. Data was collected from paper-based and computerized medical records of airplane pilots who applied for Class 1 Aviation Medical Certificate renewal at the Institute of Aviation Medicine, Royal Thai Air Force, Bangkok, Thailand, in 2018. The data was sampled by a simple random sampling technique. RESULTS: A total of 386 paper-based records were sampled. Of those, 29 (7.5%) of the pilots met polycythemia criteria. Spearman's correlation analysis showed a significant positive correlation between Body Mass Index (BMI) and hemoglobin (correlation coefficient = 0.127) and between BMI and hematocrit (correlation coefficient = 0.105). In multivariate logistic regression of each variable on polycythemia as defined by hemoglobin alone, piloting a non-pressurized aircraft was found to be an independent predictor of polycythemia (odds ratio = 4.3). DISCUSSION: The prevalence of polycythemia in airplane pilots was 7.5%. Operating a non-pressurized aircraft was a significant risk factor of polycythemia, and pilots with higher BMI were more likely to have increased red blood cell parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Flying accuracy is influenced by pilots' affective reactions to task demands. A better understanding of task‐related emotions and flying performance is needed to enhance pilot training. Objective: Understand pilot trainees' performance and emotional dynamics (intensity, frequency and variability) based on training phase and difficulty level in a flight simulator. Methods: Twenty‐three volunteers performed basic flight manoeuvres. Trials were divided into three phases: Introduction (trials 1–7), session A (trials 8–15) and session B (trials 16–22). Three task difficulty levels were implemented (low, medium and high). Flying performance was evaluated using root mean square error (RMSE) and expert ratings. Emotional intensity was inferred from physiological (electrodermal activity) and behavioural (facial expressions) emotional responses. Emotional variability was calculated to understand fluctuations among multiple emotions. Emotional responses were mapped into task‐relevant emotions, like sadness with boredom, and fear with anxiety. Results and Conclusions: The most frequent facial expressions neutral, anger and surprise. Neutral and anger were interpreted as deep focus states. Surprise was likely a response to unexpected events. Flying performance and emotional dynamics varied across training phases and difficulty levels. During introduction, performance was less accurate, and emotions were less frequent. During session A, performance improved while participants experienced more physiological arousal and emotional variability. During session B, performance was the most accurate. In high‐difficulty tasks, performance was the least accurate, participants expressed emotions with more frequency, more variability and higher physiological arousal. Future studies can use simulated flying tasks for trainees to familiarize with their emotional reactions to task demands expecting to improve training outcomes. Lay Description: What is currently known about emotions in flight training?: Emotions influence pilots' decision‐making and flying accuracy.Flight simulations serve as a safe and authentic environment to develop flying skills.Emotions are dynamic processes that influence performance accuracy. What does this paper add to understanding emotions in flight training?: Flying performance improved with more practice, but it was less accurate during high difficulty manoeuvres.In simulated flight training, pilot trainees express more neutrality, anger, and surprise than happiness, fear and disgust.Pilot trainees experience more emotional fluctuations when there is no instructor feedback.Pilot trainees experience more emotional fluctuations during high difficulty flying manoeuvres. Implications for practice: Flight simulations help trainees familiarize themselves with the emotional reactions they have as training advances or encounter difficult tasks.Pilot trainees can learn emotion regulation techniques as part of their curriculum.Emotional awareness might help pilot trainees recognize key moments of disengagement or intense arousal and modify their behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unexpected spread of the pandemic raised concerns regarding pilots' skill decay resulting from the significant drops in the frequency of flights by about 70%. This research retrieved 4761 Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) occurrences based on the FDM programme containing 123,140 flights operated by an international airline between June 2019 and May 2021. The FDM severity index was analysed by event category, aircraft type, and flight phase. The results demonstrate an increase in severity score from the pre-pandemic level to the pandemic onset on events that occurred on different flight phases. This trend is not present in the third stage, which indicates that pilots and the safety management system of the airline demonstrated resilience to cope with the flight disruptions during the pandemic. Through the analysis of event severity, FDM enables safety managers to recommend measures to increase safety resilience and self-monitoring capabilities of both operators and regulators. Practitioner summary: The onset of the pandemic led to a rise in the severity of flight data monitoring events in a large airline, likely linked to a lack of operational practice and skills decay. This was demonstrated across different flight phases and aircraft types. In the settled pandemic period, the severity index returned to pre-pandemic levels, indicating that the resilience of individual pilots and safety management systems is critical to operational safety. The FDM event severity scores significantly increased following the pandemic onset, especially for event categories involving pilot core competencies. The FDM event severity scores stagnated or decreased during the later pandemic stage indicating resilience among the airline pilots and the airline's safety management system. The airline and pilots demonstrated resilience by effectively mitigating the effects of proficiency decay which took place as the pandemic started. FDM analysis has shown to be effective in establishing a proactive SMS programme to mitigate the negative impacts of the pandemic on aviation safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the current practice of pilot training relies on flight instructors' subjective assessment, computational cognitive modeling may be used to support future objective assessment and diagnosis of pilot performance. We built two models in a cognitive architecture to simulate pilot flight performance during pre-flight and take-off tasks. Modeling results were compared with human results collected from the same tasks using X-Plane 11 flight simulator. The models were able to capture human pilot performance and workload results from both tasks with good levels of fitness (percentage errors ranging from 0.8% to 13.2%). This work demonstrated the capability and advantage of this theory-driven modeling approach for supporting general aviation pilot training. We expect that this type of cognitive model will be complementary to data-driven machine learning models, and the current work provides the foundation for future work to expand the modeling capability and test practical applications in general aviation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was conducted to determine the effects of air transport pilots’ safety locus of control on their crew resource management (CRM) attitudes and to investigate the seperate and serial mediation roles of self-efficacy and flow experience in safety locus of control and CRM relationship. It is aimed to make recommendations to operators to improve their CRM effectiveness. Research data were collected from 410 air transport pilots working in Turkey by survey method. Research hypotheses were tested on the structural equation models and mediation analyses. The findings revealed that; air transport pilots’ safety locus of control predicts their CRM attitudes. In this context, both independent and serial mediating roles of self-efficacy, and flow experience at work were determined. Also, self-efficacy and flow at work as independent variables predicted CRM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Standard-setting is an essential component of test development, supporting the meaningfulness and appropriate interpretation of test scores. However, in the high-stakes testing environment of aviation, standard-setting studies are underexplored. To address this gap, we document two stages in the standard-setting procedures for the Overseas Flight Training Preparation Test (OFTPT), a diagnostic English test for ab initio pilots, aligned to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)'s Language Proficiency Rating Scale (LPRS). Performance-level descriptors (PLDs) were empirically generated in Stage 1 in collaboration with six subject matter experts (SMEs). These PLDs made explicit the correspondence between linguistic performance levels within the target language use domain and the ICAO scale. Findings suggest that the ICAO scale is not fine-grained enough to distinguish levels of linguistic readiness among ab initio pilots, nor does it adequately reflect the knowledge, skills, and abilities valued by SMEs within this domain. In Stage 2, 12 SMEs were recruited to set standards and were divided into two groups to investigate the replicability of Ebel method standard-setting procedures. Cut scores were determined for the OFTPT reading and listening tests, which were inferentially linked to the LPRS. There were no significant differences in the cut scores arrived at by both groups and reliability was excellent, suggesting that test users can have confidence in the standards set. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores how "Rivera's chair" and the "working room" became the melancholic and strangely literary objects that today make up the José Eustasio Rivera’s archive at the Universidad de Caldas in Manizales, Colombia. It examines the connection between some objects and four final moments in the writer's life: his relocation to the office-apartment of Editorial Andes; two speeches delivered in New York days before his death (one in the homage organized by Federico de Onís and another for aviator Méndez), and the repatriation of his body to Bogotá. The role of José A. Velasco, Rivera's friend, and John McDermott, his lawyer in New York, are highlighted. Finally, this paper shows how Velasco's melancholic love for collecting achieved to compile the papers and things in this collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airline pilots are members of a unique occupational group that is often confronted with sleep routine disruptions, yet relatively few studies have examined their mental health status. This study assessed the prevalence and network structure of internet addiction, depression and sleep quality problems in commercial airline pilots. A total of 7055 airline pilots were included in analyses. Internet addiction and depression were measured with the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) and 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), respectively. Sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The network model was constructed based on an Ising model and its association with sleep quality was evaluated using a flow procedure. Internet addiction, depression and sleep quality were common among airline pilots. The prevalence of internet addiction was 8.0 % (95 % CI: 7.3–8.6 %), while the rates of depression and poor sleep quality were 23.3 % (95 % CI: 22.3–24.2 %) and 33.0 % (95 % CI: 31.9–34.1 %), respectively. In the depression and internet addiction network model, "Fatigue" (PHQ4; Expected Influence (EI): 2.04) and "Depressed/moody/nervous only while being offline" (IAT20; EI: 1.76) were most central symptoms while "Fatigue" (PHQ4; Bridge EI: 1.30) was also the most important bridge symptom. The flow network model of sleep quality with internet addiction and depression showed that "Appetite" (PHQ5) had the strongest positive association with poor sleep quality. Internet addiction, depression and sleep quality were common among airline pilots and warrant regular screening and timely treatment. Strategies to improve sleep hygiene may be useful in preventing onsets or exacerbations in depression and internet addiction among airline pilots. • The prevalence of internet addiction was 8.0% (95% CI: 7.3–8.6%), while the prevalence of depression and poor sleep quality were 23.3% (95% CI: 22.3–24.2%) and 33.0% (95% CI: 31.9–34.1%), respectively. • "Fatigue" (PHQ4) and "Depressed/moody/nervous only while being offline" (IAT20) were central symptoms. • "Appetite" (PHQ5) had the strongest positive associations with poor sleep quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consistently considered one of the world's most stressful occupations, the job of an airline pilot requires increasingly specific skills and responsibilities, especially amidst the global pandemic (Cullen, et al., 2020; Sew, et al., 2022). Given the severity and implications of their decisions and actions, airline pilots must continuously undergo training and practices to ensure proper procedure. In 2020, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) augmented qualifications by enacting Pilot Professional Development (2020) requirements (published in 85 F.R. 10896), including mentoring for newly hired pilots in command (PIC). In complement with 85 F.R. 10896, C.F.R. 14, 121-N ensures "techniques for reinforcing the highest standards of technical performance, airmanship, and professional development in newly hired pilots" in command (FAA, 2020; Training Program, 2020). Although meant to enhance skills and competencies, C.F.R. 14, 121-N allows for variability and discretion in implementation (FAA, 2020). This has led to diverse mentoring programs with mixed applications in mentoring across the industry. One specific airline mentoring program redesigned for intentionality and the expansion of the mentor mindset is the Horizon Air Pilot Development (PD) Mentor Program. Recognizing the need for mentoring to begin early in the employment process, the PD program underwent innovative formalization and restructuring to support Horizon Air core values and the belief that effective mentoring takes time to develop. Through the lens of mentoring research, this case study explores the novel processes, challenges, and best practices of the Horizon Air Pilot Development Mentor Program to gain additional insights about pilot satisfaction, future program development, and pilot recruitment and retention. Furthermore, this study offers results and impacts related to pre-employment pilot mentoring outcomes and presents a paradigm for the future of mentoring in the airline industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vertical deviation is one of the important stages in commercial aircraft flights because indications of malfunction can be detected faster by the pilot rather than in other flight phases. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether the PK-LQP airplane experienced unusual altitude movements during the vertical deviation phase since the airplane taking off from Seattle (Boeing Manufacture's home base) until the airplane crash. The airplane, which is of the type B737 MAX8, had operated for 83 days, during which it completed 438 flights using a total of 107 flight codes, and it travelled to 36 airports. According to the findings of an investigation of the data, we found that only 69 (39%) were included in tier 1, which had an ADS-B data update interval message below 10 seconds, complying with ICAO and FAA-AVN standards. With this class 1 and tier 1 dataset, we conducted an EDA to find the data insight, which revealed that there was a disturbance in the speed and altitude indications on the airplane instrumentation, causing a misperception for the pilot and causing the airplane to drastically drop in altitude (more than 100 feet). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Most airline pilots reported having suffered from sleep disorders and fatigue due to circadian disruption, a potential risk to flight safety. This study attempted to uncover the actual scenario of circadian disruption and working load status among airline pilots. METHODS: In study 1, 21 pilots were invited to participate in a 14-d sleep monitoring and a dual 2-back test to monitor their sleep patterns and cognitive function level. To provide an in-depth view, data from scheduled flights, including 567 airline pilots, was analyzed in Study 2. The present study used cluster analysis to reflect the distribution of the flight scheduling characteristics, including working time and actual working hours. A simulation model was then developed to predict the pilots' 1-mo sleep-wake pattern. RESULTS: The results indicated that sleep problems were prevalent in this population, especially the night before an earlier morning shift. Regarding the cognitive test, they scored the lowest on earlier morning shifts compared with daytime and evening shifts. It was found that over 70% of the flight schedules can lead to circadian disruption, and 47.44% of the pilots worked under high-load status. DISCUSSION: Airline pilots inevitably work irregular hours and the current policies for coping with circadian disruption seem inefficient. This study thus calls for urgency in improving scheduling and fatigue management systems from the circadian rhythm perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research indicated a need to improve pilot training with regard to understanding of autopilot logic and behavior, especially in non-routine situations. Therefore, we tested the effect of problem-based exploratory training on pilots' understanding of autopilot functions. Using a moving-base flight simulator, general aviation pilots (n = 45) were trained to diagnose failures either without foreknowledge and guidance (exploratory group), without foreknowledge but with some guidance (exploratory-guidance group) or with foreknowledge and full guidance (control group). They subsequently performed six test scenarios in which their understanding of the effects of failures was tested by requiring them to deduce the failures and select autopilot modes that were still functioning. Those who received exploratory training with guidance were significantly more likely than the other groups to diagnose failures correctly. The exploratory training group also selected the most appropriate functioning autopilot modes significantly faster than the control group. The results suggest that exploratory training with an appropriate level of guidance is useful for gaining a practical understanding of autopilot logic and behavior. Exploratory training may help to improve transfer of training to operational practice, and prevent automation surprises and accidents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: A gricultural aircraft operations are associated with unique challenges. In particular, these include maintaining awareness of obstacles associated with flight at very low altitudes. Wire strikes are a common cause of accidents in these operations. METHODS: Focus groups were completed during the 2022 Ag Aviation Expo hosted by the National Agricultural Aviation Association with pilots who had experienced wire-strike events (N = 22). The researchers coded the transcripts using a human factors framework. RESULTS: Notably, unplanned "trim passes" were a key stage of flight during wire-strike events. Cognitive risk factors that may have affected their performance included situation awareness, decision-making choices, and pressure to perform. Over half of subjects reported being aware of the wire before collision. Possible prevention strategies include not spraying the field due to safety risks, paying better attention to where they were in the field, and avoiding deviation from the planned route. DISCUSSION: Wire-strike events often occur due to momentary lapses in attention, even when the pilot is already aware of the wire. This study shows that targeted approaches to prevent wire strikes in agricultural aviation operations require addressing a number of cognitive risks and human factors, rather than implementing increased preflight surveillance. These results have implications for preventing future wire-strike accidents based directly on pilot perceptions, both within agricultural operations and general aviation more broadly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: In the literature, central serous retinopathy (CSR) accompanying solitary fibrous tumors (SFT) in a pilot has not been reported. In airline pilots, mass effect-related symptoms such as diplopia, ptosis, etc., seen with orbital tumors may endanger flight safety. CASE REPORT: A 62-yr-old male commercial airline pilot presented with blurred vision in the right eye. He had been receiving treatment for 2 mo because of CSR. His visual acuity was 10/20 in the right eye and 20/20 in the left. During examination, ptosis and exophthalmos were noticed in the right eye. Ocular movements were free in all cardinal directions and there was downward displacement in the right eye. There was no diplopia. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 1.5-to 2-cm well-defined contrast-enhancing mass in the lateral extraconal orbit. His medical flight certificate was suspended for 3 mo due to decreased visual acuity and superior visual defect. Superior orbitotomy was performed without any complication. Ptosis and CSR had regressed 1 wk after surgery. All systemic and ophthalmological examinations met aviation medical certificate requirements. He returned to flight on the condition of being checked every 3 mo. At the 1-yr follow-up, there was no sign of recurrences of SFT or CSR. DISCUSSION: SFTs are slow-growing neoplasms that can manifest symptoms related to mass effect. In the current literature, there are no reported cases of the coexistence of orbital SFT and CSR or pilots able to resume flight duties only 1 wk after a successful orbitotomy and tumor resection surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flight staff are at particular risk of iterative sinus barotrauma. We here report a case of barotraumatic atelectasic frontal sinusitis with dynamic radiologic change in frontal sinus volume. A 46-year-old air pilot was referred for right frontal pain occurring at each landing. Two sinus CT scans were taken: one after a period of intense flying and the other after a month without flying. In the right frontal sinus, a type-3 Kuhn cell changed in volume from 6 × 11 × 12 mm to 13 × 18 × 19 mm. The alteration involved a modification in the medial wall, which was demineralized and changed position within the frontal sinus. Removal during endoscopic frontal sinusotomy allowed complete resolution of pain. This article reports radiologic change in a frontal sinus wall in a setting of repeated barotraumatic frontal sinusitis with a dynamic atelectasic component. In iterative barotrauma, we advocate imaging at different time points. When the ostial obstruction is identified, functional aeration surgery can be applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, three carnivorous bat species, namely Ia io, Nyctalus lasiopterus, and Nyctalus aviator, are known to actively prey on seasonal migratory birds (hereinafter referred to as "avivorous bats"). However, the absence of reference genomes impedes a thorough comprehension of the molecular adaptations of avivorous bat species. Herein, we present the high-quality chromosome-scale reference genome of N. aviator based on PacBio subreads, DNBSEQ short-reads and Hi-C sequencing data. The genome assembly size of N. aviator is 1.77 Gb, with a scaffold N50 of 102 Mb, of which 99.8% assembly was anchored into 21 pseudo-chromosomes. After masking 635.1 Mb repetitive sequences, a total of 19,412 protein-coding genes were identified, of which 99.3% were functionally annotated. The genome assembly and gene prediction reached 96.1% and 96.1% completeness of Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs (BUSCO), respectively. This chromosome-level reference genome of N. aviator fills a gap in the existing information on the genomes of carnivorous bats, especially avivorous ones, and will be valuable for mechanism of adaptations to dietary niche expansion in bat species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the role of trait mindfulness in the psychological adaptation of civil aviation personnel, and compare the importance of this role between airline pilots and other civil aviation practitioners. A total of 198 civil aviation pilots and 804 other civil aviation practitioners were recruited to complete surveys on mindfulness, SCL-90, job burnout, core self-evaluation, and psychological resilience. The network relationship between trait mindfulness and psychological adaptation was constructed. The results showed that trait mindfulness played an important role in the psychological adaptation network of civil aviation employees. Specifically, trait mindfulness was negatively correlated with obsessive-compulsive symptoms and emotional exhaustion, and positively correlated with core self-evaluation. However, no significant difference was found in trait mindfulness and psychological adaptation network between pilots and non-pilots. These findings show that mindfulness has a unique positive effect on the psychological adaptation of civil aviation personnel. Specifically, the mindfulness trait may alleviate compulsive symptoms or reduce emotional exhaustion, enabling airline personnel to maintain a good self-evaluation. At the same time, the role of mindfulness traits in the network is similar, indicating that the positive role of mindfulness intervention in civil aviation may be universal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A "detect-and-avoid" capability providing a "remain well-clear" function will be needed for unmanned aircraft to fly safely in uncontrolled airspace. It could also be used in controlled airspace provided that the action chosen by the pilot, based on the system suggestive guidance, is compatible with the current air traffic control clearance or an amended clearance. The study reported in this paper looks at the potential operational consequences of the interaction between a pilot and the air traffic controller in controlled airspace when a clearance amendment must be requested by the pilot using the recently standardized detect-and-avoid system, Airborne Collision Avoidance Systems Xu (ACAS Xu). Numerical simulations on a potential encounter are performed. A model of pilot behavior when faced with a remain well-clear alert (including pilot-controller communication delays) is used. An analysis of the qualitative results outlines several areas of concern: the possible confusion caused by multiple changes in remain well-clear guidance, the undesirable effects when both aircraft are equipped with ACAS Xu, and the potential interaction with short-term conflict alerts displayed at the air traffic controller's workstation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: There is a current belief in aviation suggesting that aerobic training may reduce G-tolerance due to potential negative impacts on arterial pressure response. Studies indicate that increasing maximal aerobic capacity (Vo2 max) through aerobic training does not hinder G-tolerance. Moreover, sustained centrifuge training programs revealed no instances where excessive aerobic exercise compromised a trainee's ability to complete target profiles. The purpose of this review article is to examine the current research in the hope of establishing the need for routine Vo2-max testing in air force pilot protocols. METHODS: A systematic search of electronic databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, the Aerospace Medical Association, and Military Medicine was conducted. Keywords related to "human performance," "Air Force fighter pilots," "aerobic function," and "maximal aerobic capacity" were used in various combinations. Articles addressing exercise physiology, G-tolerance, physical training, and fighter pilot maneuvers related to human performance were considered. No primary data collection involving human subjects was conducted; therefore, ethical approval was not required. RESULTS: The Vo2-max test provides essential information regarding a pilot's ability to handle increased Gz-load. It assists in predicting G-induced loss of consciousness by assessing anti-G straining maneuver performance and heart rate variables during increased G-load. DISCUSSION: Vo2-max testing guides tailored exercise plans, optimizes cardiovascular health, and disproves the notion that aerobic training hampers G-tolerance. Its inclusion in air force protocols could boost readiness, reduce health risks, and refine training for fighter pilots' safety and performance. This evidence-backed approach supports integrating Vo2-max testing for insights into fitness, risks, and tailored exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Undesirable meteorological conditions are typical aviation flight safety threats. Although most meteorological radar and flight augmentation computers have avionic system wind shear alarms, the preferred approach is that pilots avoid unsafe wind shear events. Therefore, effective pilot competency evaluations are needed to assess pilots' abilities to deal with these events. This study developed a wind shear operation competency model that includes observable behavior indicators, sub-task decomposition, and competency check items. An adapted competency model and a quantitative data-driven competency evaluation criteria optimization method were then developed using three-dimensional competency feature modeling, after which wind shear simulation flight training data were used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The competency assessment grades were significantly correlated with the results from experienced examiners with a 93.33% evaluation accuracy. The proposed quantitative data-driven competency assessment method can provide effective pilot competency assessments for a range of aviation meteorological threats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to identify diseases that result in permanent and temporary medical disqualification for civil aviation pilots and their changes over the years. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the medical examination records performed in Turkey from 2018 to 2022, in accordance with ICAO and EASA standards. The permanent disqualification rate was 1.3%, and the temporary disqualification rate was 6.6%. The most common reasons for permanent disqualification among pilots were circulatory system diseases (24%), mental and behavioral disorders (22.9%), and nervous system diseases (11.5%). The most common reasons for temporary disqualification among pilots were circulatory system diseases (17.9%), digestive system diseases (11.8%), and health problems related to COVID-19 infection (9.5%). The data obtained from this study may be useful in developing preventive medicine approaches to prevent medical disqualifications and in-flight medical incapacitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the safety implications of transitioning to Single Pilot Operation (SPO) in commercial aviation, focusing on the potential risks posed by automation and the elimination of one pilot from the cockpit. It discusses the history of cockpit crew configurations, the roles of pilots in dual pilot flight (DPF), and the proposed shift towards SPO.

Based on the socially embedded model of thriving, the present study examined a moderated mediation framework, which involves the mediating role of employee thriving and the moderating role of career adaptability in the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and safety performance. A two-wave survey was administered among full-time commercial pilots working for airlines (N = 131). Our results showed that EI had a positive influence on employee thriving, which in turn positively affected safety performance. In addition, the results further revealed that the positive effect of EI on safety performance was stronger among pilots with a higher level of career adaptability. These findings have important implications for theoretical developments on EI, thriving, and performance in a safety context, and they also provide practical insights on how to enhance workplace safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Military pilot education, including flight training, is a long, expensive, and complex process. The main goal is to produce as many skilled professionals as possible ready to perform flight tasks on the front-line aircraft and push them to their workload limits with complete control. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to select and educate young people with the aptitude and abilities to perform the most demanding military flight tasks. The creation of a model for the education and training of military pilots depends on the requirements of the Czech Air Force Command and the teaching capacities of the University of Defence and the Aviation Training Centre in Pardubice. Rearmament of the Czech Air Force and the required number of pilots requires a change in the new military pilot training model. This contribution describes a new approach to Czech Air Force pilot education and training in the current security conditions in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Gas expansion in body cavities due to pressure changes at high altitudes can cause barodontalgia. This condition may compromise flight safety. Aim. To investigate relationships among barodontalgia awareness, dental visit frequency, and barodontalgia prevalence in civilian and military pilots operating at high altitudes. Materials and Methods. Civilian pilots from Turkish Airlines and military pilots from the Turkish Air Force, flying between November 2022 and January 2023, participated in this study. A 20-question survey was administered to 750 pilots, covering topics such as barodontalgia awareness, dental visit frequency, breaks after dental treatments, in-flight pain, and pain type and severity. The voluntary surveys were distributed by email. Results. Of the 750 pilots, 526 completed the survey; 61% were aware of barodontalgia, and 81% of pilots who had experienced it reported pain at altitudes <2000 feet. The study revealed higher barodontalgia awareness among pilots who had experienced it, with the highest prevalence among jet pilots. Pilots with barodontalgia also showed a higher frequency of dental visits (p < 0:001). Additionally, this group reported more frequent interruption of flight due to dental treatment (IFDT), more problems experienced in flights after treatment (PFAT), and higher instances of bruxism or teeth clenching during flight, suggesting stress and anxiety (p<0:05). Conclusions. Barodontalgia, a type of pain linked to stress, significantly impacts pilot performance, and can threaten flight safety, even at lower altitudes. Thus, there is a need to educate pilots about stress management, barodontalgia awareness, and the importance of regular dental check-ups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: U.S. Army aviators are required to maintain a level of physiological fitness as part of their qualifying process, which suggests that they are generally physically healthy. However, it has not been statistically proven that they are more “physiologically fit” than the general population. METHODS: This retrospective study compares physiological measurements of U.S. Army aviators from the Aeromedical Electronic Resource Office database to the U.S. general population using the Center for Disease Control’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data. To enable an accurate comparison of physiological metrics between U.S. Army aviators and the U.S. general population, aviators were categorized into the same age groups and biological genders used for segmentation of the national population data. RESULTS: On average, pulse rate was 4.85 bpm lower in male aviators and 6.84 bpm lower in female aviators. Fasting glucose levels were, on average, 10.6mg · dL−1 lower in aviators compared to the general population. Key metrics like pulse rate and fasting glucose were lower in aviators, indicating cardiovascular and metabolic advantages. However, parameters like cholesterol showed less consistent differences. DISCUSSION: While aviation physical demands and administrative policies selecting for elite physiological metrics produce improvements on some dimensions, a nuanced view accounting for the multitude of factors influencing an aviator’s physiological fitness is still warranted. Implementing targeted health monitoring and maintenance programs based on assessments conducted more frequently than the current annual flight physical may optimize aviator safety and performance over the course of a career. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate whether high cognitive task load (CTL) for aircraft pilots can be identified by analysing heart-rate variability, electrocardiograms were recorded while cadet pilots (n = 68) performed the plane tracking, anti-gravity pedalling, and reaction tasks during simulated flight missions. Data for standard electrocardiogram parameters were extracted from the R–R-interval series. In the research phase, low frequency power (LF), high frequency power (HF), normalised HF, and LF/HF differed significantly between high and low CTL conditions (p <.05 for all). A principal component analysis identified three components contributing 90.62% of cumulative heart-rate variance. These principal components were incorporated into a composite index. Validation in a separate group of cadet pilots (n = 139) under similar conditions showed that the index value significantly increased with increasing CTL (p <.05). The heart-rate variability index can be used to objectively identify high CTL flight conditions. Practitioner summary: We used principal component analysis of electrocardiogram data to construct a composite index for identifying high cognitive task load in pilots during simulated flight. We validated the index in a separate group of pilots under similar conditions. The index can be used to improve cadet training and flight safety. Abbreviations: ANOVA: a one-way analysis of variance; AP: anti-gravity pedaling task; CTL: cognitive task load; ECG: electrocardiograms; HR: heart rate; HRV: heart-rate variability; HRVI: heart-rate variability index; PT: plane-tracking task; RMSSD: root-mean square of differences between consecutive R–R intervals; RT: reaction task; SDNN: standard deviation of R-R intervals; HF: high frequency power; HFnu: normalized HF; LF: low frequency power; LFnu: normalized LF; PCA: principal component analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a comprehensive resource on seaplane safety and accidents. It includes links to FAA aviation safety information, seaplane safety guidelines, and general aviation activity surveys. The document also provides research articles and studies on seaplane accidents, risk assessment, and pilot analysis. It presents figures and tables showing the number of seaplane accidents, fatalities, and flight time over the years. The document highlights the top accident event sequences and causes for both seaplanes and non-seaplanes. Overall, it is a valuable source for anyone researching seaplane safety and accidents. [Extracted from the article]

Working on a moving platform can significantly impede human performance. Previous studies on moving vehicles have often focused on the overall impact on general task performance, whereas our study's emphasis is on precise hand movements, exploring the interaction between body motion and the escalation of task difficulty. We recruited 28 participants to engage in reciprocal aiming tasks, following Paul Fitts's setting, under both in-motion and stationary conditions. The task index of difficulty (ID) was manipulated by varying the width of the targets and the distance between the targets. We measured participants' movement time (MT), performance errors, and monitored their eye movements using an eye-tracking device, heart rate (HR), and respiration rate (RR) during the tasks. The measured parameters were compared across two experimental conditions and three ID levels. Compared to the stationary conditions, the in-motion conditions degraded human aiming performance, resulting in significantly prolonged MT, increased errors, and longer durations of eye fixations and saccades. Furthermore, HR and RR increased under the in-motion conditions. Linear relationships between MT and ID exhibited steeper slopes under the in-motion conditions compared to the stationary conditions. This study builds a foundation for us to explore the control mechanisms of individuals working in dynamic and demanding environments, such as pilots in airplanes and paramedics in ambulances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To build a warfighter from the ground up, training should include not only the core competencies required for job performance in the Fleet but also the mental toughness expected to handle the stress, fatigue, and call for sudden action required of all sailors on duty, regardless of occupation. Recruit Training Command (RTC) has embarked on a program to provide explicit training to recruits on the development of toughness in boot camp. This program is multifaceted, including three pilot programs (two all-male pilots, one integrated/ mixed gender pilot) for mental skill training. Recruit divisions were assigned to either mental toughness (MT) condition or active control (AC). The MT group received daily, 10-min guided mindfulness exercises, three “just-in-time” trainings in sports psychology skills, and an oncommand focusing exercise. Results varied across the three pilots with the exception of ontime graduation rates, which favored the MT condition in every pilot. Taken together, the three MT pilot studies show possible benefits for performance during boot camp with MT practice, and predictable advantages for graduation rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the self-study methods used by pilots while grounded and their perception of competence decline and confidence upon their return to flying. Background: Previously, long absences from flying were managed on a case-by-case basis. Thousands of pilots returning to flying as the pandemic eases have burdened airline training systems. Limited research has been conducted on the decline in skills of airline pilots while operationally absent from the cockpit. Few studies have considered this topic in the context of a pandemic. Method: A questionnaire study was conducted with 234 airline pilots who were grounded during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: Uncertainty regarding sudden and indefinite periods of grounding made it challenging to maintain motivation to self-study. This matter was aggravated by the additional financial and personal stress caused by the state of the airline industry and the outcomes of the pandemic. The participants anticipated a decline in manual flying skills as the worst outcome after being absent from the flight deck. However, these pilots proved quick to recover these skills when they resumed flying. It took significantly more time for pilots to regain proficiency in applying knowledge, procedures and compliance with regulations, situation awareness and workload management. Conclusion: The study proposes recommendations for pilots and airlines to harness essential self-study practices in competency areas identified to have significantly declined. Application: The outcome of this paper guides airlines, pilots and regulators in better understanding how grounded pilots observe skill decline in a broader range of competencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the domain of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Simplified Vehicle Operations (SVOs) promise a reduction in handling complexity and training time for pilots. Designing a usable human–machine interface (HMI) for pilots of SVO-enabled aircraft requires a deep understanding of task and user requirements. This paper describes the results of two user research methods to gather these requirements. First, a traditional Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) mission was examined using a Hierarchical Task Analysis (HTA). The findings were used to formulate a theoretical HTA for a single-piloted electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) system in such a scenario. In the second step, qualitative interviews with seven subject matter experts (pilots and paramedic support) in HEMS operations produced vital user requirements for HMI development. Key findings emphasize the necessity of a simplified information presentation and collision avoidance support in the HMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]