Sensorimotor function of aerial firefighting pilots

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Fatigue is a key determinant of physical and cognitive function yet little is known about the impact of fatigue on pilot performance. Based on a relatively small amount of data collected from long-haul commercial pilots, Transport Canada has proposed new flight duty regulations which will be applied to all aviation sectors. In the case of aerial firefighting, the regulations will force rest on rested pilots and could permit flight by fatigued pilots. The world's largest privately-owned business dedicated to aerial firefighting (Conair Group Inc.) estimates it would be necessary to double their roster of pilots to maintain a full fleet throughout the wildfire season. It is the aim of this proposed research to establish the reliability of measures of neuromuscular and cognitive function in aerial firefighter pilots and to explore the possibility that this group of highly-trained and skilled individuals differ from age-matched controls. These data will form the foundation for future research to elucidate the impact of fatigue on pilot performance in aerial firefighting in order to develop an alternative means of compliance to the pending regulations. The results of this future research are expected to enhance the safety of such programs and ensure a cost-effective solution to this important issue.