US regulators toughen rules on pilot rest periods

In the face of major opposition from the airlines involved, U.S. regulators have instituted rules aimed at reducing the potential hazards caused by pilot fatigue during long-haul international flights.

Nearly 18 months of debates on the issue ended with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposing tougher rules on crew rest period as well as other measures to enhance safety on flights operated by American and Continental airlines between the U.S. and India.

Over time, the new rules will be applied to all U.S. airlines that fly ultra-long-range services, lasting 16 or more hours.

The regulations require that pilots on the longest of the routes rest from 40-48 hours after arrival. Currently, the rules require shorter rest periods.

Both American and Continental have resisted mandating longer rest periods for pilots. They have also objected to other requirements in regard to pilot qualifications and training.

Airlines providing shorter rest periods for pilots in foreign destinations are able to keep labor costs down, but union leaders and safety experts say that insufficient rest risks safety should crews with insufficient rest be needed to cope with in-flight emergencies or other unusual situations.

www.faa.gov