Flight tests of the 4D flight guidance display

A perspective primary flight and a navigation display format were evaluated in a flying testbed, The night tests comprised ILS- and standard approaches as well as low level operations utilising the depiction of a spatial channel, and demonstrations of the inherent ground proximity warning function. In the cockpit of the VFW614, the left seat was equipped with a sidestick and a flat panel display, which showed both the 4D-Display and the Navigation Display format. Airline and airforce pilots flew several missions each. Although most of the pilots criticized that a typical Flight Director commanding the aircraft's attitude was missing, they could follow the channel precisely. However, some airline pilots stated a lack of vertical guidance information during the final approach. Leaving and re-entering the channel could be easily accomplished from any direction. In summary pilots' assessment of the display concept yielded an overall improvement of SA In particular it was stated that displays are an appropriate means to avoid CFIT accidents. With the first prototypes of 3D-graphics generators designed for avionics available the flight evaluation will continue including feasibility demonstrations of high-performance graphics for civil and military aircraft applications.