The Biodynamic Aspects of Low Altitude, High Speed Flight

Abstract

The physical forces encountered by an aircraft in low altitude, high speed flight can be particularly stressful to the aviator. The gross physical elements which make up this envelope are the dynamic profile of the aircraft, the flight pattern, and the dynamic profile of the atmospheric environment. The specific dynamic factors, whose application results in a physiological response in the pilot, are vibration, buffeting, angular acceleration, and gross acceleration of operator origin. The physiological systems of the aviator that are primarily responsive to the overall dynamic stresses are the cardiovascular, respiratory, neurohormonal, labyrinthine, visual and skeletal systems. The physiological variations observed in pilots in actual low altitude, high speed flight both in-flight and po3t-flight suggest the application of the general adaptation syndrome. Comparative results from in-flight observations and simulator studies demonstrate differences in physiological recordings which suggest the absence of apprehension as being a major defect in simulation as an indicator of pilot performance in low altitude, high speed flight. Protective systems for the pilot in the low altitude, high speed flight profile are those of good restraints, antibuffeting helmets, possible use of positioning and the use of an aeroplane which is ‘ least demanding ’ of the pilot. The need for more experimentation both in flight and in suitable simulators is apparent.