Three-quarters of European pilots unintentionally fell asleep for a few seconds during flights recently

A recent report reveals that three-quarters of European airline pilots have experienced micro-sleeping in the cockpit, with a quarter regularly flying while feeling fatigued. The European Cockpit Association surveyed 7,200 pilots, highlighting insufficient rest and pressure to extend working hours. Many pilots fear repercussions for reporting fatigue. Fatigue in aviation is attributed to long hours, inadequate rest, irregular schedules, and crossing time zones, posing significant safety risks by impairing judgment and reaction times. European regulations require airlines to implement systems to monitor and manage crew fatigue levels. The highest rates of fatigued flying were reported in Spain, Ireland, and France, while only 10% of British pilots reported similar experiences.