Activity of the nervous system durig the let-down, approach and landing: a study of short duration high workload.

Abstract

Abstract : Subjective assessment of workload and changes in the rr interval and finger tremor of the pilot were studied during the let-down, approach and landing of a Boeing 707 aircraft. The observations were made during thirty-four landings into international airports. Each let-down was assessed for its overall difficulty and with reference to the various factors which influence the work pattern. The rr interval was recorded during the terminal part of the cruise and let-down and the finger tremor was recorded before take-off and within one minute of touch-down. It is considered that mean rr interval around touch-down reflects the workload of the cruise, let-down, approach and landing whereas changes in finger tremor are associated with untoward events during the approach. (Author)