Re-engaging Pilot Situation Awareness Through Graduated Automation Reduction in Cruise Flight

This study examined whether reducing the level of automation (LOA) following a prolonged low-workload condition can restore pilots’ situation awareness (SA). Twelve certificated pilots completed a simulated cruise-flight scenario under three LOA conditions: Full Automation, Partial Automation, and Manual Control. SA was assessed using the Situation Present Assessment Method (SPAM), perceived workload using the NASA-TLX, and performance using course and airspeed deviation. Results indicated no significant differences in SA or perceived workload across LOA groups. Correlation analyses showed no significant relationships between SA, workload, or performance. Although effect sizes were substantial for several comparisons, observed power was low, limiting the interpretation of non-significant findings. These results suggest that LOA reduction may not produce immediate SA recovery during cruise conditions, highlighting the need for additional research using larger samples and higher-demand flight phases. Implications for automation design, training, and SA-recovery strategies are discussed.