[Problem od mental image in aviation psychology].

This paper discusses theoretical aspects of aviation psychophysiology, specifically the problem of image control of objective actions of a pilot. The general concept representing a system of psychic control of pilot's actions is an image of the flight. Its structural components include: an image of spatial position, an image of an instrumental panel, and the feeling of an aircraft. It is shown that these three information-cognitive components are insufficient to use the flight image for controlling objective actions. It is important to supplement it with object-activity components. Using the flight image concept and experimental observations, a model of controlling objective actions of a pilot is discussed. Components of the model form a closed self-regulating system with direct and feedback control loops. It is underlined that the knowledge of functional patterns of mental images of a pilot is required not only to explain his actions at work but also to solve problems of designing his professional activities and to develop means and methods of his training.