Fatigue among aviation students and time management in flight training

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence, causes, and consequences of fatigue among aviation students in Europe. It examined their self-awareness of fatigue, lifestyle habits, time management practices, and the role of mindfulness in mitigating fatigue-related impairment. A total of 188 participants completed an online survey comprising the Collegiate Aviation Fatigue Inventory (CAFI-II), the Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale–Revised (CAMS-R), and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Quantitative analyses included descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression. Participants reported moderate levels of fatigue and limited awareness of its impact on performance. Common causes included insufficient sleep, high workload, and psychological stress. Fewer than half of the students received formal fatigue training. A statistically significant negative relationship was found between mindfulness, particularly the acceptance subscale and daytime sleepiness. Fatigue also showed a positive correlation with performance-related impairments and variability in alertness. The findings suggest that fatigue remains an underrecognized yet critical safety issue among aviation students. Training programs should incorporate fatigue management and mindfulness education to improve awareness, build resilience, and support safe flight performance.