Franklin Rujano Alain Zachary Friedrichs Alexis A. Barrios Sr. James N. Hanover
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
In aviation, safety is the highest priority. Several recent aviation accidents and incidents have brought the mental health issue of the pilots to the forefront of aviation safety. To protect the safe..
In aviation, safety is the highest priority. Several recent aviation accidents and incidents have brought the mental health issue of the pilots to the forefront of aviation safety. To protect the safety of crew members and passengers, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other civil aviation authorities across the globe strictly regulate the status of pilots’ physical and mental health. The purpose of this paper is three-folded. First, it describes the significance of pilots’ mental health and its impact on aviation safety. Second, it explores the state of pilots’ current mental health and the causes and side-effects of mental health-related issues. Third, it reviews relevant regulations currently in place and summarizes available resources established by the FAA and civil aviation authorities to support pilots’ mental health. The paper concludes by providing useful recommendations beneficial for the pilots, regulatory agencies, and general public interested in getting a better understanding of mental health-related issues in high-stress professions.
Franklin Rujano Alain, Graduate Student Zachary Friedrichs, Graduate Student Alexis A. Barrios Sr., Graduate Student James N. Hanover, Graduate Student