A new device aimed at preventing potentially life-threatening emergencies for pilots has been certified for use by the U.S. Air Force, marking a significant leap in aircrew safety. The SPYDR device has been certified as safe for use on select aircraft by the service, following an extensive test and evaluation process. The device, developed by Spotlight Labs, is a small earcup equipped with integrated sensors that monitor blood oxygen and heart rate by resting on an artery beneath the ear. This real-time monitoring capability aims to provide early warnings of potentially dangerous physiological events (PEs) before they escalate into emergencies for pilots and other aircrew.
Physiological events, defined as any injury, illness, or abnormal physiological condition experienced by aircrew due to the flight environment, have been an increasing concern for the Air Force. These events can range from hypoxia, hyperventilation, and decompression sickness to more complex issues such as spatial disorientation and acceleration effects. Since 2010, the Air Force has seen a rise in the rate of PEs across multiple fighter and trainer platforms, including the T-6A Texan II and F-15C Eagle. The impact of these events can severely impair an aircrew’s ability to fly safely and effectively. The Air Force has been collaborating with the Navy, NASA, academia, and industry partners to investigate these events and implement solutions.
In response to the growing issue, the Air Force has undertaken several steps to mitigate PEs. The 711th Human Performance Wing has conducted 67 research studies since 2010, focusing on aircrew breathing systems and human factors. This research includes studies on hypocapnia in tactical aircrew, which is a condition of low carbon dioxide in the blood stream resulting from hyperventilation. Furthermore, the Air Force is updating the Military Standard 3050 to incorporate physiological parameters into the design criteria for aircrew breathing systems.
Aircraft modifications and upgrades have also been a crucial part of the mitigation strategy. For example, the T-6A Texan II has had its on-board oxygen generating system (OBOGS) maintenance schedule updated. The F-15C Eagle, F-15D Eagle, and F-15E Strike Eagle have received upgrades, including the installation of cockpit pressure monitoring and warning systems, along with maintenance on the canopy seal assembly. This is important as canopy seal leaks can lead to cockpit depressurisation which increases the risk of PEs.
Aircrew training has also been enhanced to help aircrew recognize and respond to PEs. Initial training now includes courses on the physiological effects of altitude, self-imposed performance threats, and spatial disorientation. Refresher training is required every five years to keep aircrews up to date. The Air Combat Command has also developed “roadshows” to educate aircrew on PEs.
The SPYDR device, which was conceptualised in 2018, is another important development in the effort to improve aircrew safety. It has undergone rigorous testing, including human factors, altitude, rapid decompression, temperature, and impact testing. The device has now been certified as “Safe to Fly” for use on F-15 Eagles, F-16 Fighting Falcons, F-22 Raptors, A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, T-6A Texan IIs, T-38 Talons, and T-1A Jayhawks. The SPYDR device is commercially available, and purchasing organisations are responsible for its sustainment.
According to TJ Turner, the integrated product team lead for SPYDR, the device has been updated since its conception and now has capabilities that may mitigate potentially life-threatening events. Scott Murphy, chief of the Aeromedical Systems Branch, stated that the feedback from aircrew has been very positive. This effort would not have been possible without the support of the 422nd and 59th Test and Evaluation Squadrons at Nellis Air Force Base, who planned and executed the operational tests of the device.
While these efforts, including the introduction of SPYDR, have significantly improved aircrew safety, the Air Force acknowledges that PEs cannot be completely eliminated due to potential unanticipated aircraft malfunctions or human factors. The Air Force will continue to research, train, maintain, upgrade and test to identify root causes of PEs and to improve safety for its aircrews.
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