Pilots go to work despite fatigue and sometimes take a nap during flights

A survey by the European Cockpit Association revealed that many pilots feel pressured to work even when fatigued, fearing repercussions from employers. Three-quarters of respondents reported having fallen asleep during flights in the month prior to the survey, particularly among pilots from Irish and Maltese airlines. In contrast, pilots in the Netherlands and Finland are more likely to report fatigue to their employers. Irregular working hours and crossing time zones disrupt sleep patterns. The ECA calls for airlines and regulators to take greater responsibility in protecting pilots, emphasizing the need for political will.