Mixed methods study of designated pilot examiners experiences with advanced display technology and technology advanced aircraft

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: This study is a mixed methods investigation into the experiences of FAA Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) with the certification of private pilots in technology advanced general aviation aircraft. A survey was sent to 100 randomly selected examiners to obtain information on their experiences with advance technology. From the survey respondents, 10 examiners were selected and interviewed to determine the safety, training, and testing impacts of advanced technology in general aviation aircraft equipped with new private pilots.

Findings and Conclusions: This research into the perception of examiners experiences with Advanced Display Technology indicates there are incidents where safety has been negatively impacted as a result of the current certification process for new airmen. Surprisingly, the DPEs perceived little need for changes to the FAA's rules and regulations with the exception of a pilot technology endorsement. Rather, the greatest need is for more structure and standardization in the pilot training curriculums with advanced technology and the monitoring/enforcement of training objectives. To that end, instructors and examiners must be proficient in the technology that they are teaching and certifying pilots in. This research reinforces the findings in the NTSB 2010 study of glass cockpits in light aircraft.