You get tired? Challenges in Long Flight Days

Flight crew, whether pilots or Cabin Crews, have an exciting, but also challenging profession.

We spend long hours in the air, facing time zone changes and having to deal with fatigue in an environment that requires extreme concentration.

Let’s look at the effects of fatigue on crew members and how we can mitigate it.

Schedule and shift planning

Flight Schedule is something like what regulates our lives. Proper schedules and shifts are essential to reduce fatigue.
Airlines should consider the circadian rhythms and sleep needs of their staff when scheduling flights and assigning shifts. We are not machines that turn off and rest and turn on and remember procedures and make correct decisions in record time.

They generally use software programs. They try to ensure that regular or irregular schedule rotation can help crew members get used to working at inappropriate times of the day.

Adequate breaks between flights

It is important that crew members have enough time between flights to recover. Breaks allow the body to adapt to time zone changes and reduce accumulated fatigue.
Establishing rules that guarantee adequate breaks is essential for the well-being of the crew, not only general civil aviation rules, but also internal airline rules adapted to the types of flights they perform.

There are regulations in each country or in large areas such as Europe, but even so, complying with the regulations, it is possible that the fatigue is sufficient for the flight, being within the legal regulations, to be unsafe due to fatigue.

Fatigue Management Training

Airlines can provide fatigue management training to their staff. This includes educating crew members about the risks associated with fatigue and teaching them strategies to identify and combat it.
Training may include napping techniques, relaxation exercises, and tips to improve sleep quality.

Foster a culture of well-being

Airlines can foster a culture of wellness that supports crew members in their fight against fatigue.
This involves encouraging employees to communicate their ideal type of flight rotation and promoting self-care.
Additionally, resources such as counseling and support can be provided to address issues related to stress and fatigue.

Technology and fatigue monitoring

Technology plays a crucial role in mitigating crew fatigue.
Fatigue monitoring systems can be implemented that evaluate the condition of crew members before and during the flight.
Additionally, apps and devices can provide information about sleep quality and suggestions for improving it.

Crew fatigue is a constant challenge in the aviation industry.
However, with proper planning, appropriate breaks, training, a culture of well-being and the use of technology, it is possible to reduce the detrimental effects of fatigue on crew members and ultimately ensure the safety and well-being of those who work. tirelessly to keep our flights safe and comfortable.

Good rest, until then, find peaceful skies.

Enrique. QrewMentor Team