SUBJECTIVE FATIGUE OF C-141 AIRCREWS DURING OPERATION-DESERT-STORM

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.