Working Memory: A Criterion of Potential Practicality for Pilot Candidate Selection

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this research was to examine how candidates’ spatial working memory (WM) and visual perspective taking (VPT) skills could predict their training success. Background: To make pilot selection more effective, a body of research has focused on selection criteria. WM and VPT might be highly relevant to pilot training. However, very few studies have directly addressed their roles in training success. Method: Two hundred participants completed the computerized WM and VPT tasks individually at the beginning of flight training. Those who succeeded in the primary phase entered the advanced phase. Logistic regressions were done to determine the associations between WM and VPT and success or failure of training. Results: WM was positively correlated with training success in both primary and advanced phases. After controlling the covariates, WM still had a unique predictive effect on training success in the advanced phase. Conclusion: It could be beneficial to add spatial WM to procedures of pilot candidate selection.