A survey conducted by the European Cockpit Association shows that nearly a quarter of European pilots continue to fly even though they are too tired

Almost one-quarter of pilots at European airlines, or 24%, admit that they choose to continue flying even when they are too fatigued to pilot safely, according to a survey conducted by the European Cockpit Association (ECA). The study was carried out in August among nearly 7,200 captains and co-pilots from 32 countries.

The data point to a significant risk to aviation safety. Over the past four weeks, 76.8% of pilots experienced at least one episode of microsleep while piloting, while 38.8% generally did not get enough rest to prevent accumulated fatigue. Only 37.2% said they report when they are unfit to fly or too fatigued.

Pilots say they fear pressure from employers and possible sanctions. Approximately 69.1% are concerned about the consequences of refusing an extension of flight time, permitted in exceptional circumstances under the “commander’s discretion” provision. Over the past four weeks, 38.3% used this provision at least once.

The biggest problems were reported by crews at low-cost airlines and ACMI operators. Only 15.6% of low-cost pilots believe that employers manage fatigue risks effectively. In Ireland and Malta, fear of reprisals is more pronounced, while the United Kingdom, Finland and the Netherlands have more well-established non-punitive reporting systems.

The ECA is calling on authorities and airlines to improve fatigue-management rules and protect pilots who report that they are unfit to fly.