Benefits associated with improving fatigue regulations for cargo pilots

This study investigated the potential business benefits of improving fatigue regulations for cargo pilots in Brazil. The research objectives were to compare fatigue levels between cargo and passenger operations, identify regulatory inefficiencies for cargo operators, simulate proposed changes, and analyze cost scenarios. The experimental design involved a review of fatigue regulations in Brazil and the USA, analyzing pilot scheduling data, and the creation of hypothetical flexible scheduling scenarios for 70 pilots flying 16,500 hours annually. We reviewed NTSB data on fatigue-related incidents in US cargo operations with flexible regulations and from the fatigue program of LATAM Cargo. Comparisons between the USA and the rest of the world showed that the rate of accidents per number of cargo flights in the USA is below average, with most accidents not attributed to fatigue. The results indicated that aligning with the US CFR 117 could improve cargo pilot availability in Brazil by 34.28%, with a potential cost savings of up to $3.6 million for an airline of that size. This research highlights the importance of flexibility and adaptation in fatigue management and mental health programs for pilots in the aviation industry, particularly cargo operations. Introducing more flexible fatigue regulations for cargo pilots could lead to operational efficiencies and potential cost savings without compromising safety. Further research needs to explore the impacts of these changes on passenger operations and to gather feedback from pilots and unions regarding extended pilot schedules. The proposed regulatory changes focused on maximum duty time, flight hours, rest periods, and monthly/annual limits