Effective Prevention and Mitigation of Fatigue in European Air Traffic Controllers: Results of a Delphi Study

Introduction: Air traffic controllers (ATCOs) play a critical role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel. However, their work is often characterized by high levels of stress, long hours, and irregular schedules, which can lead to fatigue. Research has shown that fatigue can affect ATCOs' ability to concentrate, make decisions, and communicate effectively, increasing the risk of errors and accidents. Effective fatigue prevention and mitigation is therefore essential. From scientific literature however, little evidence is available.

Methods: A Delphi study was conducted to review and analyze the effectiveness of existing and new approaches to prevent and mitigate ATCO fatigue. The study utilized a panel of 31 experts with diverse backgrounds. The panel was presented with a list of 28 potential measures, which were derived from existing knowledge of the researchers, a literature review and other domains, but excluded rostering-related approaches. The Delphi study consisted of three rounds, allowing the panel to provide feedback, motivate their answers, and suggest additional measures. The study aimed to achieve consensus among the experts, defined as at least 80% of participants having a similar opinion.

Results: The Delphi study identified six preventative and mitigating measures that were deemed most effective and applicable for ATCOs in Europe: 1. Implementing a Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) to structure mitigating measures; 2. Providing bedrooms near the operations room to allow ATCOs to sleep before, during, or after shifts; 2. Offering quiet rest facilities near the operations room; 4. Introducing an educational program on strategies to enhance adaptation to shift work, such as light exposure, physical activity, and nutrition; 5. Promoting pre-duty napping (e.g., before a night shift); and 6. Promoting napping during on-duty breaks. These measures primarily focus on enhancing ATCOs' ability to cope with irregular working hours, either through individual behavior or coaching.

Conclusion: The Delphi study provided valuable insights into the perceived effectiveness of various fatigue prevention and mitigation measures for ATCOs. The implementation of a FRMS was considered the most effective measure among experts, indicating that a comprehensive and systematic approach is necessary to manage fatigue in ATCOs. While the identified measures show promise, additional scientific studies are needed to prove their effectiveness. The development of a FRMS can incorporate several of the other identified measures, providing a structured approach to fatigue mitigation. Air traffic service providers (ATSPs) should consider the specific culture, needs, and wishes of their target population, as well as individual characteristics of ATCOs, when implementing these measures and monitoring their effects.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
08. Oktober 2025