Human factors and ATC

HUMAN FACTORS
IN ATC

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL
„ “The U.S. air traffic controller workforce consists

of approximately 15,000 dedicated and well-trained men and women working in air traffic control towers, terminal radar approach control centers, and en route control centers managing 30.2 million square miles of airspace (Federal Aviation
Administration, 2013).”

FATIGUE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP
„ The human body heavily relies on sleep to maintain a

healthy, functioning life.
„ . “Sleep isn’t exactly a time when your body and brain shut

off, actually, while you rest, your brain stays busy, overseeing a wide variety of biological maintenance that keeps your body running in top condition, preparing you for the day ahead (Help Guide, 2013).”

FATIGUE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP
CONT’D
Sleep Deprivation side effects include
„ Fatigue, lethargy, and lack of motivation
„ Moodiness and irritability
„ Reduced creativity and problem-solving skills
„ Inability to cope with stress
„ Reduced immunity; frequent colds and infections
„ Concentration and memory problems
„ Weight gain
„ Impaired motor skills and increased risk of accidents
„ Difficulty making decisions
„ Increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other health problems

FATIGUE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP
CONT’D
„ The incident of an air traffic controller falling asleep while on the job in

the tower of Reagan National Airport led to the investigation of human fatigue negatively impacting the performance of air traffic controllers everywhere. „ “We expect controllers to come to work rested and ready to work and

take personal responsibility for safety in the control towers. We have zero tolerance for sleeping on the job,” said Secretary of Transportation
Ray LaHood. “Safety is our top priority and we will continue to make whatever changes are necessary (FAA, 2011).”

FATIGUE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP
CONT’D
„ Only a few