Background and Aim: Flying boats are aerodynamic marine vessels that fly at low altitude. Physical damage from maritime missions in variable climatic conditions and in normal or operational conditions can cause mechanical and vibrational damage due to flight shocks. The aim of this study was to investigate the ergonomics of flying boats in accordance with the physical and physiological conditions of pilots in south of Iran.
Methods: In a pilot study, 6 pilots employed in flying boats in Bandar Abbas were surveyed. Physical (musculoskeletal, auditory, visual, skin) and mental (fear and anxiety) problems associated with working in a flying boat were documented by a specialist physician. A field visit was conducted on the ergonomic aspects of the various components of the flying boat and a semi-structured interview was carried out with the pilots.
Results: The mean age of 6 flying boat pilots was 24.8±6.2 years. All pilots suffered from musculoskeletal injuries, arthritis, back pain and hearing loss. All the pilots were in a state of anxiety during the flight or landing. Shocks and vibrations due to ups and downs, annoying sound of the flying boat engine over the pilot's head, lack of cooling system and lack of proper clothing, lack of ergonomic principles in seat and cabin design, inadequate training of the pilots were recorded during field visits and pilot interviews.
Conclusion: Pilots employed in flying boats are at risk of physical and psychological injury due to inadequate ergonomic factors of these boats as well as unsuitable seat and inadequate training. All of the pilots in this study suffered from these injuries. By taking these into account in the redesign of this flying boat and adequate training of the pilots to maintain their health, performance levels can also be improved.