Which approach is recommended for aircrew whose sleep disorders affect performance?

• A. Continue flying and ignore symptoms
• B. Seek diagnosis and treatment, adjust schedules to optimize rest, and avoid flying when symptoms are unmanageable
• C. Rely solely on caffeine and rest breaks
• D. Change to a different job within the airline without medical input

Answer: (B)

Sleep disorders can seriously impair alertness, reaction time, and decision-making, all of which are critical for safe flight. When these issues affect performance, the best approach is to get a formal medical evaluation, obtain appropriate treatment, and adjust duty schedules to maximize restorative rest. This ensures the underlying problem is addressed and helps restore reliable performance rather than just masking fatigue. After diagnosis and treatment are underway, aircrew can often return to flying with safeguards in place. Avoid flying when symptoms are unmanageable because impairment can lead to slower reactions, poorer situational awareness, and higher risk of an error. Relying on caffeine and short rest breaks doesn’t treat the root problem and can give a false sense of safety. Changing to a different job without medical input bypasses proper medical oversight and may leave the individual still impaired or out of compliance with aviation medical standards.