Physiological responses of novice flight trainees during different stages of helicopter simulation training based on pulse rate variability

Physiological adaptation plays a critical role in skill acquisition during complex flight training processes, yet its dynamic changes across different training stages remain insufficiently understood. This study investigates physiological state changes in novice learners during helicopter flight simulation training and examines their association with skill acquisition. 14 participants without prior flight experience were recruited and completed a progressive four-stage training program, learning from basic helicopter control to independently executing the Helicopter Traffic Pattern. During the experiment, participants’ Pulse-to-Pulse Interval (PPI) signals were continuously recorded, and Pulse Rate Variability (PRV) features were extracted. Statistical analyses were conducted to examine differences in PRV features across training stages. The results showed that PRV features changed significantly across training stages. These dynamic changes in PRV reflected variations in workload and the adaptive regulation of the autonomic nervous system across different stages of skill acquisition. The findings provide physiological evidence for optimizing training program design and support the development of real-time monitoring approaches for trainees’ states.