Aircrew selection systems.

Abstract

Research was conducted to develop and validate a computerized battery of psychomotor and cognitive tests to identify candidates who would not either complete pilot training or be recommended for a fighter assignment after training. All or part of the battery of 15 tests was given to 1,622 Air Force pilot candidates prior to training and their test scores were regressed against various flying performance measures. Two psychomotor tests and tests of perceptual speed, decision making speed, and memory function were found to be significant predictors of flying performance. An experimental pilot selection system using these results was found to have substantial practical value in reducing attrition from pilot training. Future research on computerized test development is discussed.