Australian Air Traffic Controller's Fatigue Incident Prompts Safety Reforms

A Brisbane controller was found asleep after multiple night shifts, leading to calls for better fatigue management in aviation.

The incident occurred in December 2022 at Brisbane Centre, affecting Cairns airport operations.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) report highlighted ineffective fatigue risk management and over-reliance on short-term staffing solutions.
The controller had worked 10 night shifts in 12 days, contributing to significant sleep debt.
Airservices Australia has since increased its number of air traffic controllers and updated fatigue management protocols.
The ATSB urges the entire transport sector to address fatigue as a critical safety issue.