Nearly a quarter of European airline pilots take off even when too tired to work

A report reveals that three-quarters of European airline pilots have dozed off in the cockpit, with nearly a quarter regularly flying while fatigued. Factors contributing to fatigue include long hours, inadequate rest, irregular schedules, and time zone changes. Fatigue poses significant safety risks, impairing judgment and reaction times. The report urges European regulators to tighten safety regulations regarding crew fatigue monitoring. Additionally, 75% of respondents admitted to unintentionally nodding off while flying in the past month, with low-cost and wet-lease airline employees reporting the most issues. Many pilots feel pressured to comply with extended duty requests from captains.