The U.S. Air force and other defense elements have recognized the need to solve the problem of lack of survivability of current air traffic management capabilities in a tactical environment. As part of the trans-century solution to this problem, the development of the automated tactical launch and recovery system (ATALARS) must integrate emerging automation capabilities and display technologies in a system design that increases the joint efficiency of both men and machines. The requirements of this future system will focus on the need for interoperability of the interservice and international command and control system. These requirements imply an increase in the number of automated functions, and that more computer assistance will be supplied to both the controller and the pilot. A primary goal of the system design will be the optimal allocation of functions to the system, the controller, and the pilot. The roles of each of these critical system elements must evolve in ways that emphasize their strengths, and minimize their weaknesses. The present work will define the human factors issues that are of critical impact to the successful deployment of ATALARS. The work will also identify human factors research for which further development would be of significant benefit in the design of a future air traffic control system that exploits the best capabilities of humans and machines for optimal efficiency and safety.
