The Human Systems Integration Division's Flight Cognition Laboratory, at NASA AMES Research Center, is studying the cognitive processes that underlie the performance of pilots, air traffic controllers, and other skilled professionals. This research involves a combination of well-controlled laboratory studies of basic cognitive mechanisms, theoretical modeling, flight simulation studies, field observations, and analysis of accident reports.

Current research topics include prospective memory, concurrent task management, stress, and visual search. We work closely with commercial airline training departments and try to provide a bridge between research and aviation operations, with the ultimate goal of improving aviation safety.