Pilot fatigue for years has been listed on the NTSB’s “Most Wanted List” for aviation safety improvements, and the subject will be explored further in a hearing before the House Subcommittee on Aviation next week. This week, John Prater, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, talked to the Memphis Commercial Appeal about the issues. “[Airline pilots] are flying 15 to 25 percent more hours than they were before the bankruptcy era,” he said. But worse are changes in the work rules that determine time away from home and other details. “The work rules are really safety issues, and now we are seeing the impact,” he said. The rules don’t take into account the fatigue that accompanies late-night shifts, he said. Also, more pilots are working extra routes now to make up for pay cuts imposed when airlines went into bankruptcy. “We’re seeing a shortage of pilots coming to the industry,” Prater said, “because it no longer provides a lifestyle and benefits.” The House subcommittee will review the “Most Wanted” list next Wednesday, June 6, at 10 a.m.
ALPA Says Pilot Work Rules Are Unsafe
Key Takeaways:
- Pilot fatigue remains a top aviation safety concern, listed on the NTSB's "Most Wanted List" and set for review by the House Subcommittee on Aviation.
- Airline pilots are experiencing increased flight hours (15-25% more than before the bankruptcy era) and work rules that do not adequately address fatigue, especially from late-night shifts.
- Economic pressures, including pay cuts leading pilots to work extra routes, and a decline in the industry's lifestyle and benefits, are contributing to pilot fatigue and a shortage of new pilots.
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