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Controller Workload Management & Human Factors Flashcards

6 cards from real CPC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 Controller Workload Management & Human Factors flashcards as text

  1. What is a 'readback/hearback' error in ATC communication, and what standard practice reduces it?

    Answer: A controller failing to monitor the pilot's readback of a clearance; mitigated by active listening and verification

    Hearback errors occur when a controller fails to catch an incorrect pilot readback; active monitoring of readbacks and challenging incorrect ones is the primary mitigation.

  2. What is the 'PEAR' model in human factors, relevant to ATC error analysis?

    Answer: People, Environment, Actions, Resources — a framework for analyzing human performance factors

    The PEAR model (People, Environment, Actions, Resources) provides a structured framework for analyzing factors that contribute to human performance and error in aviation.

  3. What is an 'automation surprise' in modern ATC, and why is it a human factors concern?

    Answer: When automated systems take unexpected actions that conflict with the controller's mental model

    Automation surprises occur when automated tools (like STCA or ERAM) take actions or display information that contradicts the controller's situational awareness, potentially causing disorientation.

  4. What is the purpose of STCA (Short Term Conflict Alert) in ATC operations?

    Answer: To provide audible and visual alerts when radar predicts two aircraft may violate separation

    STCA is a safety net tool that generates alerts when the system predicts two aircraft will violate separation minima within a short time period, giving controllers time to intervene.

  5. Controller fatigue is primarily managed through which FAA-mandated mechanism?

    Answer: Scheduled rest requirements and shift rotation limits in FAA Order 7110.65

    FAA scheduling requirements mandate minimum rest between shifts and limit consecutive hours on position to manage cumulative fatigue in controllers.

  6. What is 'complacency' in ATC human factors, and in what environment does it most commonly develop?

    Answer: Reduced vigilance due to routine or low-traffic periods; develops in low-demand environments

    Complacency develops during low-traffic or routine periods when controllers become less vigilant, potentially missing conflicts or errors that they would catch during high-alert operations.