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A novel approach to encouraging proper fatigue management in british army aviation training and operations

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 February 2016

R. P. King
R. P. King*
Affiliation:
School of Army Aviation, Middle Wallop, UK
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Abstract

Fatigue management in military aviation remains problematic and can be easily neglected by planners and aircrew in a busy operational environment. The basic assessment tool (BAT) is an objective and educational computer tool for evaluating and combining various fatigue factors. It provides an impartial performance comparison while at the same time educating and reminding its users of the importance of fatigue management. Individual factors of the BAT were chosen because they affect fatigue, sleepiness, alertness and performance. A short explanation of components not chosen is also included. An example of how the BAT can be used is described and figures of the resulting outputs (screenshots) are included. Most commercial fatigue estimation products are subjective and do not consider specific issues associated with tactical operations in a field environment. This novel approach can be used to help plan missions by minimizing the BAT score while still maximising the tactical advantage and keeping fatigue management fresh in the minds of military rotary wing pilots while in training and on operations. Although the BAT is military aviation focused and objective, it can be easily modified to suit particular fatigue concerns.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 109 , Issue 1096 , June 2005 , pp. 293 - 298
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 2005 

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