Airline Industry and Fatigue Management

Airline Industry Operations

• The airline industry operates 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, and 365 days a year.
• This constant operation occurs globally, meaning daylight hours are always present somewhere in the world.

Fatigue: Types and Effects

• Acute Fatigue: Temporary exhaustion from brief periods of excessive physical or mental work; can result from overexertion or insufficient sleep. A night of overindulgence in partying and alcohol can lead to acute fatigue
• Chronic Fatigue: (not discussed further)
• Sleep deprivation has significant negative consequences.
• Losing sleep, or disrupting one's sleep pattern, is analogous to borrowing from a bank - It needs to be repaid.
• Aiming for 8 hours of sleep is crucial for recovery.

Preventing Fatigue

• Prioritize 8 hours of Sleep: Track sleep patterns for two weeks.
• Establish a Routine: Maintain consistent bedtimes and wake times.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity promotes physical fitness and improves sleep quality.
• Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol before Bed: Reduce the consumption of stimulating substances close to bedtime.
• Create a Dark and Quiet Sleep Environment: A calm, quiet room with low light is conducive to sleep.
• Balanced Diet: Fuel the body with a healthy diet.
• Sleep Before Your Shift: Prioritize rest before starting a shift to minimize potential fatigue during work hours.

Managing Fatigue at Work

• Acknowledge and Address Fatigue: Recognize fatigue as a natural response to physical/mental exhaustion.
• Maintain Physical Activity: Moving, stretching, and light exercise can combat fatigue.
• Promote Alertness: Take breaks, small exercise during breaks, and caffeine-containing beverages (coffee, tea, cola, chocolate).
• Plan Tasks Strategically: Schedule difficult/boring work for periods of peak alertness.
• Coordinate with Colleagues: Collaborate with work colleagues to provide support during periods of low alertness.

Famous Example of Severe Fatigue (Charles Lindbergh)

• Lindbergh's transatlantic flight in 1927 showcased the effects of prolonged fatigue; He endured over 30 hours of wakefulness during the flight and approximately 15 hours before the flight.
• Lindbergh's journal entries provide insight into the mental and physical impact of severe exhaustion. His journal described reduced mental clarity and a strong desire for sleep.