Study on Increased Automation.—

Sec. 602. Study on Increased Automation.— (1) In general.—In order to develop the tools necessary for establishing appropriate selection criteria and training methodologies for the next generation of air traffic controllers, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct research to study the effect of automation on the performance of the next generation of air traffic controllers and the air traffic control system. (2) Content.—Research conducted under paragraph (1) shall include investigation of the following: (A) Methods for improving and accelerating future air traffic controller training through the application of advanced training techniques, including use of simulation technology. (B) The role of future automation in the air traffic control system and its physical and psychological effects on air traffic controllers. (C) The attributes and aptitudes needed to function well in a highly automated air traffic control system, and development of appropriate testing methods for identifying individuals possessing those attributes and aptitudes. 102 STAT. 4103 (D) Innovative methods for training potential air traffic controllers to enhance the benefits of automation and maximize the effectiveness of the air traffic control system. (E) New technologies and procedures for exploiting automated communication systems, including Mode S Transponders, to improve information transfers between air traffic controllers and aircraft pilots. (3) Report.—Not later than 6 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall report to the Congress the Administrator’s plans for conducting research under this section.