The detrimental effects of
fatigue in aviation are well established, as evidenced by both the number of
fatigue-related mishaps and numerous studies which have found that most pilots experience a deterioration in cognitive performance as well as increased stress during the course of a flight. Further, due to the nature of the average pilot's work schedule, with frequent changes in duty schedule, early morning starts, and extended duty periods,
fatigue may be impossible to avoid. Thus, it is critical that
fatigue countermeasures be available which can help to combat the often overwhelming effects of sleep loss or sleep disruption. While stimulants such as
caffeine are typically effective at maintaining alertness and performance, such countermeasures do nothing to address the actual source of
fatigue -
insufficient sleep. Consequently, strategic
naps are considered an efficacious means of maintaining performance while also reducing the individual's
sleep debt. These types of
naps have been advocated for pilots in particular, as opportunities to sleep either in the designated rest facilities or on the flight deck may be beneficial in reducing both the performance and alertness impairments associated with
fatigue, as well as the subjective feelings of
sleepiness. Evidence suggests that strategic
naps can reduce subjective feelings of
fatigue and improve performance and alertness. Despite some
contraindications to implementing strategic
naps while on duty, such as sleep inertia experienced upon awakening, both researchers and pilots agree that the benefits associated with these
naps far outweigh the potential risks. This article is a literature review detailing both the health and safety concerns of
fatigue among commercial pilots as well as benefits and risks associated with strategic napping to alleviate this
fatigue.