Use Of Weather Information By General Aviation Pilots

Quantitative data obtained from 221 general aviation (GA) pilots were examined to determine their usage patterns for weather information. Conclusions: 1) A small fraction of pilots show sparse use patterns and these may be at risk for flying with inadequate preparation; 2) There seems to be a strong tendency for many pilots to prefer relatively simple forms of information (e.g., METARS). Interview data were qualitatively scored for factors which influence weather-related decision making. Factors finding relatively strong support are (a) the specific type of weather to be faced (storms, ice, visibility, and cloud ceiling are of greatest concern to GA pilots), (b) type of flight (IFR vs. VFR), (c) pilot physiological state (primarily disorientation), and (d) the inherent uncertainty of weather and the resultant cognitive difficulty of understanding the uncertainty. Factors finding more modest support are (a) social and/or economic pressures, and (b) impulsive behavior. Additionally, relatively strong support is found in previously unpublished data for the influence of mission goals. Research directions, remediations, and the value of qualitative analysis are disclosed."--Page i of both vol.