Hidden danger in cockpit surfaces as 3 in 4 pilots report 'microsleep' episodes
Over 75% of pilots reported having "microsleep" episodes while flying, according to a major survey of 7,200 pilots. Experts weighed in on the topic amid flight safety concerns.
TL;DR
- A report based on responses from 7,200 pilots in 32 European countries found that over three in four pilots reported at least one 'microsleep' in recent weeks.
- Nearly 39% of pilots stated they usually or always do not get enough rest to prevent fatigue build-up.
- Only 37.2% of pilots typically report when they are too fatigued to fly, while 24.2% report flying anyway.
- Experts express concern that fear of career consequences leads to unreported fatigue, increasing risks.
- The US FAA implemented stricter rest requirements in 2012, mandating at least 10 consecutive hours of rest before duty.
- Pilot fatigue can be exacerbated by overnight work and crossing multiple time zones, disrupting natural sleep patterns.
- Rest requirements for flight attendants have also faced scrutiny, with proposed federal rules aiming to prevent separate state and local requirements.