How well do pilots sleep during long-haul flights?

Abstract

It is imperative that shiftworkers in safety-critical workplaces obtain sufficient sleep to operate effectively. This presents a challenge to long-haul airline pilots who are required to supplement normal bed sleep with sleep on-board an aircraft during flight. In the current study, the sleep/wake behaviour of 301 airline pilots operating long-haul flight patterns was monitored for at least 2 weeks using self-report sleep diaries and wrist activity monitors. The data indicate that sleep opportunities in on-board rest facilities during long-haul flights result in a similar amount of sleep, but only 70% as much recovery, as duration-matched bed sleeps.

Statement of Relevance: This study indicates that in-flight sleep provides airline pilots with 70% as much restoration as duration-matched bed sleep. To increase the restoration provided by in-flight sleep, airlines could take measures to improve the quality, or increase the amount, of sleep obtained by pilots during flights.

Keywords:

• naps
• recovery
• restoration
• sleeps
• pilots

Acknowledgements

This research was financially supported by the Australian Research Council and a project group that included the University of South Australia, an international airline, a civil aviation regulator and a pilots' association. Thank you to Tracey Sletten, Nicole Lamond and Renée Petrilli for assistance with data collection.