Understanding Collegiate Aviation Pilot Mental Performance Studies and Future Research Opportunities

Abstract

Verbatim from Embry-Riddle Scholarly Commons. Not paraphrased, not summarized.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (2022), fatigue is defined as “a condition characterized by increased discomfort with lessened capacity for work, reduced efficiency of accomplishment, loss of power or capacity to respond to stimulation, and is usually accompanied by a feeling of weariness and tiredness” (p. 2). Further outcomes of fatigue include tiredness, weakness, lack of energy, lethargy, depression, and lack of motivation (ICAO, 2016). Stress can release cortisol which can in turn cause sleep issues leading to fatigue (Harvard, 2021). In one study Mendonca, Keller, and Albelo (2023) found 69% (n = 192) percent of collegiate aviation pilots reported mild or severe psychological distress. There is an opportunity to help students improve the quality of their educational experience. This presentation will provide recent research results from studies focused on fatigue and stress among collegiate aviation pilots. Practical implications such as improved fatigue training, successful mental health initiatives, and linkage to safety programs will be discussed. Lastly, the authors will discuss future research opportunities which utilize technology to obtain objective measures to enhance existing programs.

Authors

• Henneberry, Debra Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• Brown, Stephanie Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• Coimbra, Flavio Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• Keller, Julius Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Keywords

• Fatigue
• Stress
• Collegiate Aviation
• Aviation Mental Health
• Aviation Safety and Security
• Other Mental and Social Health