Hardeep Hundal 1, Ben Johnston1
1Air New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand
Background
Aircrew have been dramatically impacted due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Those who have retained international flight roles have experienced major changes and restrictions to their work conditions and social freedoms during and between flights. It appears aircrew are becoming increasingly stressed, though the mechanism for this is not completely clear. Little previous literature‐based evidence is available. A potential explanation for increased stress of aircrew may be that their working conditions have changed so dramatically.
Aims
The study examined the social and well‐being experiences of aircrew in an airline who have continued to fly internationally during, between, and after flights.
Methodology
A qualitative study where data collection and analysis for international aircrew working were undertaken. 10 participants were interviewed. Data was first collected via in‐depth semi‐structured interviews and then interpretive phenomenological approach used to generate themes and subthemes.
Results
There were five key themes from this study. The themes were “Impacts at Individual level”, “Pressures on social and family interactions”, “Risk associated with work and job”, “Relationship with Regulatory Authorities and Ministry of Health” and “Future Perceptions”. Aircrews' experiences at home as well as at work are important. Furthermore, their perceptions of Regulatory Authorities and Ministry of Health has not always been positive.
Discussion/Conclusion
The COVID‐19 pandemic has certainly impacted the aircrew's physical, mental, socio‐economic well‐being. Airlines need to provide strategies to support aircrew.