Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
software would have to be modified according to the needs of each aircraft type; an
external GPS module is needed; power supplies differ across aircraft.
Some reported problems are not attributable to the geographic service. The value
from this part of our research is that pilots are willing to have electronic device in
the cockpit, which opens the door for digital charts. Only 16 % of respondents are
not willing to have a mobile EFB device in cockpit. This is a positive result, if we
assume that people generally view changes in their work environment negatively.
Furthermore, 38 % of respondents do not have experience with such a device, a
level of experience we believe is unsatisfactory. From our point of view, every user
should have at least some basic experience with such a device. With such experi-
ence the adoption of digital maps is more likely. On the other hand, integrating new
electronic devices with older flight desks could obstruct access to or use of other
equipment. Installation must ensure that the EFB is installed for easy access if used
during high workload flight phases. The structural cradle can obstruct visual and
physical access to flight controls and displays (Chandra and Yeh
2003
).
Pilots
Attitude to the Smart Legend
'
Pilots
reactions to the smart legend are mostly positive. 84 % of them stated that it
would be a helpful tool. 9 % are not interested, and 6 % did not answer.
The most frequently mentioned required functions of the smart legend are the
following: aerodrome information, runways, and schemes (56 %), ability to display
obstacles and terrain relief (53 %), displaying published airspaces, air zones,
significant and radio navigation points, airways, and corridors (50 %). Less fre-
quently mentioned functions are frequencies of radio navigation systems (17 %),
user points, tags, layers, tactical situation (13 %) and current use of the airspace
(6 %).
It turns out that the concept of smart legend is correct and it knocked to the needs
of pilots. Further research in this area will be valuable.
'
Collaboration and Reported Problems on the Geographical
Basis
We asked the pilots about problems with geographical (cartographic) support.
Pilots would especially like faster distribution of maps, better communication,
and a centralized system of distribution. Some have expressed dissatisfaction
with the transition to NATO standards in the map production. The reason for
such complaints is a loss of quality in details, especially in the maps used when
flying at low altitudes.
