Date of Award

9-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Operational Sciences

First Advisor

Jacob D. Maywald, PhD

Abstract

Fuel represents over 70% of the logistical resupply demand within the Department of Defense, with the United States Air Force accounting for most of that consumption. While prior fuel efficiency efforts have primarily focused on technical upgrades, this research explores how behavioral interventions can influence pilot decision-making and operational energy outcomes. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as a guiding framework, this study investigates the effects of targeted behavioral strategies on pilots’ attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, intentions, and actual fuel-efficient behaviors. A quasi-experimental design was applied through a controlled pilot study using simulator flights. Six participants were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: control, private feedback, and public feedback. The study employed pre- and post-intervention surveys to capture behavioral constructs and a difference-in-differences (DiD) regression model to evaluate the impact of each intervention. Results indicate that feedback, particularly public performance comparisons, positively influences behavioral intentions and observable flight efficiency. These findings align with prior research on goal-setting theory and underscore the importance of structured feedback mechanisms in promoting fuel-efficient behavior. This research contributes to the growing body of literature emphasizing the role of behavioral science in operational contexts and demonstrates the value of experimental methods for informing policy and training approaches in military aviation. The study offers a scalable model for future experimentation and lays the foundation for broader implementation across the Air Force.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENS-MS-25-S-006

Comments

An embargo was observed for posting this thesis.

Approved for public release (Distribution A), distribution unlimited. PA case number 88ABW-2025-0749

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