Assessment of fatigue in aviation crews.

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship of Schonpflug's model of regulatory behavior and a questionnaire which was designed to assess behavioral change due to fatigue in aviation crew members. Data was gathered from three patrol aviation squadrons. Rotated factor analysis was used to determine designation of factors and their related questions. A paired sample t-test was utilized for the determination of change due to a one month period of flight operations. The two statistical tests were graphically combined and compared to Schonpflug's model of regulatory behavior. The psychological costs to benefits economics of Schonpflug's regulatory model were confirmed. Schonpflug's model was found to be an excellent evaluative tool when coupled with the questionnaire's statistical tests in determining non resolution of problems brought about by fatigue.