Fatigue and Burnout Among Flight Instructors: Implications for Flight Training and Safety

Certified flight instructor (CFI) fatigue is a significant concern to both aviation safety and the quality of pilot training, as it can severely impair judgment, reaction times, and decision-making ability. This study combines a historical analysis of aviation accidents/incidents and survey questionnaires to investigate work-induced fatigue and burnout among CFIs. Our analysis of the ASRS database reveals a rising trend in safety reporting of incidents, particularly within operations under 14 CFR Part 91 (General Operating and Flight Rules). Analysis of the NTSB database shows that flight crew fatigue poses critical safety concerns leading to fatal accidents. Our survey findings indicate that fatigue is a prevalent issue among CFIs, with many experiencing it regularly, while burnout is less frequent but still considerable. The risk of burnout for CFIs increases with their fatigue levels, with some CFIs knowingly flying while fatigued. Flight students recognize the detrimental effects of CFI fatigue on training quality and safety. The findings indicate that work-induced fatigue is not solely an individual concern but a systemic challenge requiring collaborative efforts from flight schools, regulatory authorities, and CFIs.