Navigating Mental Workload and Safety Performance in Air Traffic Control: The Mediating Roles of Psychological Safety and Situational Awareness

Imam Sonhaji; Surya Tri Saputra; Agung Wahyu Wicaknono

doi:10.61255/jeemba.v4i6.1895

Authors

Imam Sonhaji Politeknik Penerbangan Indonesia Curug, Indonesia
Surya Tri Saputra Politeknik Penerbangan Indonesia Curug, Indonesia
Agung Wahyu Wicaknono Akademi Penerbang Indonesia Banyuwangi, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61255/jeemba.v4i6.1895

Keywords:

Air Traffic Control, Psychological Safety, Mental Workload, Situational Awareness, Safety Performance, PLS-SEM

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to elucidate a comprehensive structural framework governing the safety performance (SP) of active Air Traffic Control (ATC) personnel in Indonesia. Specifically, it investigates the underlying mechanisms by examining how psychological safety (PCS) and situational awareness (SA) collectively and concurrently mediate the relationship between operational mental workload (MW) and overall safety performance (SP).

Design/methodology/approach – A quantitative, cross-sectional survey design was deployed, targeting ATCs across three distinct operational sectors: Aerodrome Control Tower, Approach Control Unit, and Area Control Center within high-density traffic ANSP facilities. Data collected from 204 certified personnel were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM).

Finding/Results – Empirical results reveal that MW has a significant negative direct effect on both PCS and SA, whereas both constructs directly enhance SP. Intriguingly, the direct relationship between MW and SP is non-significant. Instead, the results establish an indirect-only (full) mediation model; MW impairs SP entirely through two parallel socio-cognitive pathways: the interpersonal-psychological pathway (via PCS) and the cognitive processing pathway (via SA).

Originality/Value – This study challenges traditional linear models by demonstrating that MW impacts SP solely through mediating mechanisms. By uniquely integrating Cognitive Load Theory and the Job Demands-Resources framework within high-risk ATC operations, this research highlights that mitigating operational risk requires a dual-systemic strategy that simultaneously guards controller cognition and fosters individual psychological fortitude.

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