The Effects of Display Type, Weather Type, and Pilot Experience on Pilot Interpretation of Weather Products

The majority of general aviation (GA) accidents involving adverse weather result in fatalities. Considering the high weather-related fatality rate among GA flight operations, it is imperative to ensure that pilots all experience levels can incorporate available information into their planning. In past decade, product development has incorporated increasing automation, which led generation high-resolution, model-based displays such as graphical turbulence guidance and current icing potential, rival resolution radar satellite imagery. This stark contrast traditional polygonal-based hazards (G-AIRMETs SIGMETs). It important investigate effects these changes on end user. Therefore, purpose this study was compare interpretability products for two areas interest: display type (traditional polygons vs. imagery) phenomena (ceiling/visibility, turbulence, icing), across a range pilot levels. Two hundred four participants completed series interpretation questions. results indicated significant type, well interpretation. Further investigation needed assess possible extraneous variables.