How Pilots Stay Engaged and Combat Boredom During Long Flights

When it comes to the life of a pilot on a long flight, it's critical to strike a balance between maintaining focus and avoiding boredom. While the cockpit of a commercial airplane can be a place of intense responsibility, it's also a space where pilots find creative ways to stay engaged and alert. Here, we explore the various activities that pilots undertake to make the most of their time in the sky.

Cockpit Activities and Boredom

The cockpit can be a place of long, monotonous stretches of time, particularly on international or long-haul flights. Pilots are required to maintain rigorous attention to tasks, such as monitoring fuel burn, navigation, and communication with air traffic control. As a result, it can be a challenge for pilots to combat the boredom that can set in without any distractions in the cockpit.

The FAA manual strictly prohibits reading non-relevant material during flight, emphasizing the importance of focus and alertness. However, the regulation is often flouted, as pilots frequently engage in reading, using personal devices, or even knitting to pass the time. These activities help pilots remain engaged and mentally fresh, particularly during longer segments of the flight.

Popular Cockpit Activities

Reading: Books, newspapers, magazines, and e-readers are common among pilots. Many captains permit this for the pilots to read, though they must ensure they stay alert and aware of their surroundings. The joke is often that the pilot is "just looking at the pictures," a humorous way of disguising the fact that they are actually reading. Knitting or Crocheting: Some pilots find the rhythmic nature of knitting or crocheting helps them stay engaged. Knitting can serve as a form of meditation, allowing the pilot to focus on the task at hand and take a mental break during the flight. Creative Work: There are pilots who engage in creative pursuits, such as writing or building small projects. One pilot mentioned having a side hustle involving crafting dollhouse furniture, emphasizing the diverse ways pilots can stay entertained. Paperwork: Some pilots take this time to complete business or side projects, handling paperwork while the plane is cruising at a steady altitude. This multitasking can be particularly useful for those with side businesses or freelance work.

Managing Fatigue and Drowsiness

Beyond just mental engagement, managing fatigue is a critical aspect of a pilot's job. In recent years, there has been ongoing debate about allowing controlled naps in the cockpit. In many countries, including the United States, this is still not permitted. However, studies show that a short nap of even 15 minutes can significantly improve a fatigued pilot's performance.

Other countries, such as Qantas, Air Canada, and Air France, have specific procedures for Controlled Rest In Position (CRIP). These procedures allow pilots to take a short nap to freshen up, ensuring they are alert during critical phases of the flight. Despite the potential benefits of CRIP, there is opposition from consumers, which often arises from concerns about safety and the impact on the flight schedule.

Conclusion

Pilots on long flights have to find ways to stay mentally engaged and combat the potential for boredom. Activities like reading, crafting, or even taking short naps are all part of the job. While some of these activities might seem like a deviation from the norm, they play a crucial role in maintaining the alertness and performance needed for safe and efficient flights.