A recent incident involving the pilot and co-pilot of Batik Air, an Indonesian airline, has raised concerns about the quality of rest for flight crew members. On a flight from Southeast Sulawesi to Jakarta on January 25, 2024, the pilot and co-pilot fell asleep for approximately 28 minutes, causing navigational errors and the aircraft to fly off-course on its approach to Java Island.
The incident occurred when the co-pilot, who was assisting his wife with taking care of their one-month-old twin babies when he was at home, fell asleep after the captain asked for permission to rest for a while. The area control center in Jakarta attempted to contact the aircraft but received no answer. The pilot woke up and realized the error, immediately correcting the flight path and responding to the calls from Jakarta.
Fortunately, the 153 passengers and four flight attendants on board were unharmed, and the aircraft landed safely with no damages. However, both pilots have been grounded following internal procedures.
The Indonesian Transport Ministry has launched an investigation into the incident, with a focus on the Fatigue Risk Management for Batik Air and other flight operators. The ministry has emphasized the need for airlines to be attentive to the timing and quality of rest for their pilots and other flight crew members, which could affect the level of alertness during a flight.
The National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) has recommended that Batik Air develop detailed procedures for ensuring that cockpit checks can be implemented properly and that the “IM SAFE” personal checklist can be used to properly assess pilots’ physical and mental condition.
This incident highlights the importance of ensuring that flight crew members receive adequate rest and are well-equipped to handle the demands of their job. It is crucial for airlines to prioritize the safety and well-being of their passengers and crew members by implementing proper procedures and guidelines for rest and alertness.