Description

This is the process whereby pilots may take short periods of sleep (naps), while temporarily relieved of operational duties in accordance with carefully prescribed ‘controlled rest’ procedures, when part of a two-person operating crew of an in-flight aeroplane.

A320 flight deck at night [Source wikicommons. Author: Curimedia, 2011]

Discussion

The two main factors affecting the usefulness and operational safety aspects of in-seat rest are the circumstances in which it should be used and the specific issues relating to the transition from a nap to a normal operating role.