Measuring UAS pilot responses to common air traffic clearances

Using a simulated ground control station, this study documents the methods for measuring the verbal response and execution time of unmanned aerial system (UAS) pilots to direct commands from air traffic controllers (ATCos). Although prior research has examined characteristics of ATCo-manned aircraft communication, there is very little literature on response times of UAS-ATCo communication. Thus, there is a great need to examine the measured response of UAS pilots to ATCo commands given that there will be more extensive inclusion of UAS operations in the national airspace in the near future. The present paper aims to provide a methodology for measuring part of the UAS and ATCo interaction, one that can be used in future studies involving UAS operations in the national airspace.