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Pilot Fatigue Survey Raises Concerns Over Airline Schedules And Rest Periods

The study, prepared by aviation consultancy Baines Simmons for the European Cockpit Association, collected voluntary responses from approximately 7,200 pilots across 32 countries

Photo by Kristopher Allison / Unsplash

A European pilot fatigue survey found that 76.8% of respondents experienced microsleeps, head nodding or difficulty staying awake in the cockpit during the previous month.

However, the survey grouped these symptoms together and relied on self-reported experiences, rather than independently measuring pilots falling asleep.

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The study, prepared by aviation consultancy Baines Simmons for the European Cockpit Association, collected voluntary responses from approximately 7,200 pilots across 32 countries. Nearly 39% said they lacked sufficient recovery time, while 24.2% admitted they sometimes flew despite feeling too fatigued.

Fatigue levels varied by airline type and work schedules. Researchers cited in the report found that night duties, early starts, extended shifts and multiple flight segments can increase fatigue and impair reaction times.

The report also highlighted differences between European and US rest regulations. European rules permit controlled cockpit naps under specific procedures, while US regulations do not authorize the same practice. The survey's findings may not represent all European pilots.

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