The 8th International Conference on Fatigue Management in Transportation, Resources and Health took place in Fremantle, Australia from the 21st-24th March 2011. The conference was attended by Clockwork’s Research Director, Dr Alexandra Holmes, and Managing Director, Dr Paul Jackson.

Dr Holmes and Dr Soha Al-Bayat, Head of Medical Services at Qatar Airways, jointly presented a study of a new ultra long range (ULR) route operated by Qatar Airways between Doha and Houston. The study involved the careful design of an in-flight rest schedule for ULR pilots and an evaluation of pilots’ sleep, alertness and performance. In addition to demonstrating that the route is operating safely, the study revealed that pilots originating from regions with a siesta culture make particularly effective use of in-flight rest periods. During daytime flights, pilots from siesta cultures are more likely to sleep and also sleep for longer during their in-flight rest periods.

Dr Jackson presented the findings from a UK Department for Transport-funded project which involved in-depth interviews conducted with representatives from operators, regulators and other organisations that have implemented Fatigue Risk Management Systems (FRMS). The presentation concluded with recommendations for regulators and operators who are considering implementing a FRMS.