A book review by Ken Armstrong
Given that we are an aging population
and that more information is available concerning the human animal, “Human
performance and limitations in aviation” is a book which provides insight into
our behavior and physiology that can improve the quality of our aviation
activities - and likely our life spans.
Written by pilots for pilots this most useful reference avoids heft medical
jargon as it covers topics suitable for all levels of pilot skills -
recreationally and professionally.
Legislators are taking aim at the fact that most accidents/incidents have major
human factors as contributing causes. By creating this introduction to the
physiological aspects of aviation medicine and aviation related psychology a
pilot can learn to understand how best to process information and minimize the
potential for errors and accidents.
The authors, R.D. Campbell (former chairman of AOPA) and M. Bagshaw (Head of
British Airways medical services) have captured the human foibles and
limitations and made them an interesting and informative read.
Copies are available from Iowa State Press, 2121 State Avenue, Ames, IA
50014-8300 for $29.99 or phone 800-862-6657. Their website for a broad offering
of books is www.iowastatepress.com.
Ken Armstrong has enjoyed 14,500 flight hours on more than 350 fixed and rotary wing aircraft. He provides aviation consulting/training services and flies his Diamond Extreme motor glider out of a grass strip near Victoria, B.C.
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