Published Report (DOT/FAA/CT-94-36)

Technical Observers Report
This report is the consensus of the Technical Observers concerning
the DIA triple simultaneous approach simulation. It contains
general conclusions concerning the conduct of the simulation, as
well as our recommendations to the Technical Work Group.
The simulation was to triple runways spaced 7,600 feet and 5,280
feet apart with a simulated radar system including a 4.8 second
update rate and the Final Monitor Aid (FMA). FMA is the Sony 20 x
20 high resolution color display with controller alerts.
During the simulation, the controllers had little difficulty
detecting and resolving blunders. The relative ease in which the
controllers were able to maintain required Separation became more
evident as they grew accustomed to the equipment and procedures.
In fact, as controllers gained experienced with the FMA, they were
able to wait longer to evaluate the situation and then initiate
action to resolve the blunder. Alert algorithms and runway Spacings
appeared to be the factors which allowed the controllers to take
extra time when evaluating these situations. The slower response
time did not appear to cause any "close calls" or test criterion
violations (TCV). As the simulation progressed, it appeared that
some controllers grew bored as they monitored approaches. Although
the time spent on position monitoring simultaneous approaches
varies facility to facility, controllers would never be required
to perform this function for such long periods in reality. The ease
in which blunders can be detected with the equipment tested and the
monotony of the task, are factors which may possibly influence a
controllers ability to maintain separation between aircraft.
Whether a controller is bored or not is of course impossible to
observe, however the Technical Observers agree this area may need
some additional study through human factors testing.
All but two controllers who participated had prior experience in
the procedures and equipment used for this test. Early in the
simulation the experience level of the new controllers was evident.
Even though a briefing was conducted to all personnel and practice
runs were performed prior to the actual simulation, the Technical
Observers believe that more time should be devoted to training of
controllers new to these simulations. The practice runs were
conducted until the new controllers indicated they felt comfortable
with equipment and procedures. The Technical Observers believe the
training should be conducted for a predetermined period decided by
the TWG and not left up to the discretion of the new controllers.
This training could effect the early portion of the simulation. As
an example, there were several nuisance breakouts during the early
portion of the simulation due to the new and returning controllers
adjusting to the equipment.
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