Turbulence in the Mind A Literature Review of Mental Health in Aviation and Aerospace

Abstract

This literature review sought to identify key mental health challenges faced by aviation/aerospace professionals, particularly those from minoritized backgrounds. The review examines the current landscape of mental health in the U.S. as well as the aviation/aerospace industry and finds that mental health conditions have increased drastically. Historically, mental health has been heavily stigmatized, but societal shifts are taking place that encourage more open communication on the topic. In the aviation/aerospace industry, however, the shift is slower, and aviation/aerospace professionals, especially professional pilots, note barriers such as lack of resources and fear of losing their medical certificate, and thus the ability to fly, as reasons they do not seek or receive treatment. This trend is especially concerning for BIPOC aviation/aerospace professionals as BIPOC communities tend to have lower access to resources despite facing compounded hardships. Recommendations for future research include alternative forms of mental health care and studying mental health trends across BIPOC populations. Lastly, this review outlines calls-to-action that are centered around theory, policy and practice. This literature review underscores the importance of modernizing the approach to mental wellness for aviation/aerospace professionals, specifically those working as professional pilots, and increasing access to mental health resources that do not jeopardize their ability to maintain medical certificates while still receiving the support needed to mitigate, manage, and/or overcome their mental health challenges.