Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
experiment with the proposed maps. Finally, pilots only work with the types of
maps associated with their needs and are not aware of the range of maps that are
available. Finally, not all of maps distributed by the Geographic Services are useful
to them. However, having a basic knowledge of the different kinds of available
maps could prove beneficial during certain situations.
Paper vs. Digital Map, Experience with the Digital Map
98 % of the respondents have had personal experience with flight navigation using
digital maps. This implies that the subsequent conversion from paper to digital
forms of cartographic products will be possible. 91 % of the pilots currently fly an
aircraft equipped with a device able to display a digital map.
An important question was what form of map suits them best for their job. Only
2 % of the pilots prefer paper, 14 % of them prefer a digital map, and 84 % of them
choose a combination of the two forms.
Most the pilots prefer a combination. It means both forms of maps must be
prepared during the pre-flight preparation (and thus more work). The explanation
lies in the fact that one form of map backs up the other. The pilots would rather
spend a few minutes longer preparing than to fail a task in the event of a map
problem. These results also lead us to believe that we are still not ready to fully
replace paper charts with electronic. It is therefore desirable to create such digital
material that will be sufficient enough so that the pilot does not have to use the
paper. During the planning process on the ground it is easier for pilots to create an
overview of long distance routes on paper charts. Interestingly there was a subset of
pilots, like all people, who are interested in innovation and moving to new tech-
nology. Perhaps this represents a map use situation where complete and rapid
conversion to a new technology will not happen as we might hope.
An important and related question was whether the pilots think that the digital
map can fully replace the paper one. 27 % of the respondents believe that it can,
while 70 % of them believe that it cannot and 3 % do not answer.
In terms of the category of pilot, fighter pilots are most responsive to change and
are more open-minded than other pilots. The pilots of transport planes have rather
conservative attitudes and mostly believe that the paper map will never disappear.
However, a different nature of work and a different amount of space in cockpit of
each aircraft type may play a role in these responses.
70 % of the pilots believe that the digital map cannot replace the paper one, but
they are not sceptical about its use. The digital map is regarded as a tool that
facilitates their work. Still, there is a threat of failure of electronics and many pilots
consider the paper map as a necessary backup.
On the other hand, there are some cases when the pilots consider the digital maps
necessary for the performance of certain tasks (see the chart below). 42 % of the
