Cognitive and Human-Automation Challenges in UAS-AAM Integration: A Thematic Review

Author(s)

• Jiahao Yu, Purdue UniversityFollow
• Mabior Deng Kuer Mabior, Purdue UniversityFollow
• Sooyon Jin, Purdue UniversityFollow
• Mary E. Johnson, Purdue UniversityFollow

Key words

Human Factors, UAS, AAM, Level of Automation, Human Automation Teaming, Situational Awareness, Human-Machine Interface

Abstract

This paper identifies key cognitive and human-automation challenges in the integration of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) through a thematic review of existing academic and industrial literature. Human Factors considerations in UAS-AAM differ from those in conventional aviation and require greater attention before wide deployment. This research provides a thematic review of cognitive and human-automation challenges, including Level of Automation (LOA), Human Automation Teaming and Trust (HAT²), Situational Awareness and Attention (SAA), Cognitive Overload and Distress (COD), Vigilance and Fatigue (VF), and Human Machine Interface and Interaction (HMI²). By highlighting these challenges, this study provides a foundational understanding to guide human-machine interface design, policy development, and future research in the evolving UAS and AAM landscape.

Scholarly Commons Citation

Yu, J., Mabior, M., Jin, S., & Johnson, M. E. (2026). Cognitive and Human-Automation Challenges in UAS-AAM Integration: A Thematic Review. Journal of Aviation/Aerospace Education & Research, 35(2). DOI: https://doi.org/10.58940/2329-258X.2228