Impact of multimodal distractions on aiming performance and cognitive load during whole-body rotational motion

This study investigated how different distractions affect aiming performance and cognitive load during rotational motion, a critical issue for pilots. Thirty-three participants performed aiming tasks across three phases: pre-distraction (Pre-Q), distraction (In-Q), and post-distraction (Post-Q). During In-Q, four Distraction Types were included: three auditory (Memory Recall, Math, Yes/No); and one visual. Performance was measured via movement time (MT). Cognitive load was measured by pupil dilation and blink rate. Distractions significantly increased MT, pupil dilation, and blink rate compared with distraction-free phases. Among four Distraction Types, visual distraction caused the longest MT and highest blink rate, while math distraction caused the largest pupil dilation. Overall, distractions during rotational-motion impaired aiming performance and elevated cognitive load. Math and visual distractions negatively impacted MT and cognitive load, respectively. These findings support distraction-aware interface design in dynamic environments.Practitioner Summary Distractions, especially visual and math distractions, during whole-body rotational motion impair fine motor performance and increase cognitive load. This highlights the need for pilot training programs that prepare pilots to manage distraction effects in challenging, dynamic, and motion flight conditions.