Airlift crews were exposed to extended work periods, reduced sleep per
iods, night work, and circadian dysrhythmia caused by shift work and t
ime-zone crossings during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. T
his research reveals the extent to which severe subjective fatigue was
experienced by the crews during Operation Desert Storm. In addition,
through the evaluation of long-term and short-term work and sleep hist
ories, this research shows that recent sleep and flight histories are
correlated with high fatigue levels. Furthermore, we found a tendency
for fatigue to correspond with pilot error. We recommend that the trai
ning of personnel involved in long-duration operations include fatigue
management strategies and, further, that work policies and environmen
ts be designed to take into account the importance of regular and rest
orative sleep when unusual duty hours are required.