The FAA has contracted with Frasca International, Inc., to build a Flight Simulation Training Device (FSTD) for the Cessna Citation Mustang light jet, which will be used as part of a NASA research grant by the Aerospace Human Factors Research Lab (AHFRL) at the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute in Oklahoma City. Research will focus first on pilot interaction with, and behavior related to, Traffic Avoidance System (TAS) and XMWX satellite weather information.
The Frasca FSTD will feature an accurate Mustang jet flight deck with actual Garmin G1000 avionics, plus TruFeel2 digital electric control loading, TruSound digital surround sound, and Frasca’s Graphical Instructor Station (GISt), all designed to minimize the burden of simulation orientation, and allow researchers to focus on natural pilot behaviors, Frasca officials said.
With automated scenario execution and data recording, the FSTD will generate reports for post-flight analyses. Flights can be replayed on both the FSTD and remote Debrief Station, including playback of audio communications and cockpit video. Time-stamped event logs will include aircraft configuration, control inputs, attitude, location, and weather conditions. These tools will enable researchers to study complex circumstances in precise detail and identify meaningful trends, Frasca officials note.
For more information: Frasca.com, FAA.gov
