An investigation by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has revealed that a Brisbane-based air traffic controller was discovered asleep on the job after a sequence of exhausting night shifts. The incident has prompted Airservices Australia to reevaluate its staffing and fatigue management practices.
Incident Summary
The ATSB’s investigation uncovered that the air traffic controller, responsible for the Cairns Terminal Control Unit, was found asleep under a blanket at 5:15 a.m. on December 9, 2022. Despite the absence of any immediate consequences, the ATSB emphasized the need for enhanced scheduling and fatigue risk management to prevent similar occurrences.
ATSB Findings
Angus Mitchell, ATSB Chief Commissioner, noted that the controller’s slumber was attributed to a combination of fatigue and a minimal workload during the early hours. The controller, who had worked several night shifts with inadequate extended rest periods, increased the likelihood of falling asleep by lying across two chairs and remaining inactive.
The ATSB’s report also indicated that the controller had worked two consecutive series of night shifts without the recommended rest period in between, exacerbating their sleep deficit. The investigation attributed these conditions to last-minute roster changes caused by staffing shortages.
Safety Measures
In light of the findings, Airservices Australia has pledged to augment its air traffic controller workforce, particularly in North Queensland, and to implement more rigorous fatigue management training.
The investigation revealed that the organization’s existing fatigue assessment protocols failed to recognize low workload as a potential hazard. Consequently, new guidelines and training on fatigue management will be introduced.
Ongoing Concerns
Fatigue remains a significant concern within the transportation sector, despite growing awareness of its risks. Mr. Mitchell urged transport operators to thoroughly investigate fatigue-related incidents and to address any deficiencies in work scheduling and fatigue risk management processes.
Airservices Australia will collaborate with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to trial a new fatigue risk management system.
