Neck loads and postures experienced by Canadian Forces helicopter pilots during simulated day and night flights

This exploratory study investigated neck loads and neck postures experienced by Canadian Forces (CF) helicopter pilots during routine simulator day and night flights. Using a posture matching approach video data of completed day and night flights were processed to: 1) identify the neck postures assumed during day and night flight missions, and 2) determine the amount of biomechanical cervical spine loading experienced during these flights. Results showed significant differences (p<0.05) between day and NVG flights for posture, peak and cumulative loading variables. During NVG flights the percentage of work cycle spent in mildly flexed posture increased significantly from 43% during Day flights to 74% during NVG flights. As well, cumulative reaction compression values significantly increased from 582.68 kN·s to 693.64 kN·s. Overall, NVG flights resulted in higher cumulative and peak cervical loading as well as increased time spent in non-neutral postures. The biomechanical results concur with our previous investigations of the physiological loads associated with NVG use and justify the need for guidelines associated with NVG use.