Ergonomics evaluation of Flying Boats Suitable for Pilots' Physical and Physiological Conditions- Pilot Study

Flying boats are aerodynamic marine vessels that fly at low altitudes. Physical damage from maritime missions in variable climatic conditions and normal or operational conditions with these flying boats can cause mechanical and vibrational damage due to flight shocks. This study aimed to investigate the ergonomics of flying boats in accordance with the physical and physiological conditions of pilots in Iran.

In a pilot study, 6 pilots employed in flying boats in Iran in 2013 were surveyed. Physical (musculoskeletal, auditory, visual, skin) and mental (stress and anxiety) problems associated with working in a flying boat were documented by a specialist physician. A field visit was conducted on the ergonomic aspects of the various components of the flying boat and a semi-structured interview was carried out with the pilots.

The mean age of 6 flying boat pilots was 24.8±6.2 years. All pilots suffered from musculoskeletal injuries, arthritis, and back pain and hearing loss. All the pilots were in a state of anxiety during the flight or landing. Shocks and vibrations due to ups and downs, annoying sound of the flying boat engine over the pilot's head, lack of cooling system and lack of proper clothing, lack of ergonomic principles in seat and cabin design, inadequate training of the pilots were recorded during field visits and pilot interviews.

Pilots employed in flying boats are at risk of physical and psychological injury due to inadequate ergonomic factors of these boats as well as unsuitable seats and inadequate training. All of the pilots in this study suffered from these injuries. By taking these into account in the redesign of this flying boat and adequate training of the pilots to maintain their health, performance levels can also be improved.