Fatigue is a physiological state of reduced mental or physical performance capability resulting from sleep loss, extended wakefulness, circadian phase, or workload. It can affect an individual’s alertness, concentration, and decision-making, which are all critical factors in aviation safety.
Effective fatigue risk management ensures that aviation professionals, including pilots and air traffic controllers, can perform their duties safely. Implementing comprehensive programs can significantly reduce the risk of fatigue-related incidents.
Aviation companies should establish robust Fatigue Risk Management Systems (FRMS) to monitor, report, and mitigate fatigue-related risks. Key components include fatigue education, policy-making, scheduling practices, incident reporting systems, and continuous monitoring.