Transfer-of-training: From fixed- and motion-base simulators to a light-weight helicopter

This paper aims at understanding whether helicopter flight simulators need motion bases for pilot training. While increased realism improves the Transfer-of-Training effectiveness of the simulator, it also increases costs. In this study a two-steps experiment was performed to provide evidence of motion simulators cost-effectiveness on initial pilot training. First, inexperienced student pilots participants were trained to perform a hover maneuver in a highly realistic motion simulator. The participants were divided into two groups: the first group was trained in a fixed-based condition and one in a motion-base condition. Second, a sample of participants was selected and transferred to an actual helicopter to evaluate the Transfer-of-Training and the motion feedback contribution on the participants of the motion-base condition. A Robinson R44 helicopter was sensorized to use objective measurements in support of the instructor pilots subjective evaluations. Overall, the results demonstrated the effectiveness of the training performed in the simulator, as most participants were able to stabilize and hover the helicopter both in the simulated environment and in the actual scenario. However, no difference between the two training groups was detected, suggesting that the fixed-base condition was more cost-effective.