EU Study Finds Insecure Aircrew Contracts Threaten Flight Safety

A new EU-funded study warns that growing job insecurity among pilots and cabin crew is undermining aviation safety across Europe. The research, conducted by Ghent University (UGent) and supported by the European Commission, found that precarious contracts, fatigue, and stress are eroding safety culture in both low-cost and traditional airlines.

The report, titled “UGent 2.0 – Evolving Social Challenges for Aircrew and the Need for Regulatory Response,” surveyed thousands of pilots and cabin crew from more than 100 airlines in 2024. It builds on UGent’s 2015 landmark study, which first exposed the rise of “atypical” aircrew contracts and their impact on safety and working conditions.

According to the findings, 10.3% of aircrew in Europe are employed under nonstandard arrangements, with 5.8% identifying as self-employed. These contracts are most common among low-cost and wet-leasing operators. The report found that such arrangements lead to higher stress levels, job insecurity, and reluctance to report fatigue or operational risks.

Among the key findings:
• Over 40% of respondents said their contract influenced safety-related decisions.
• Between 35% and 45% avoided reporting health or fatigue issues due to career concerns.
• More than 10% admitted they do not report safety incidents at all.
• Even permanently employed staff at legacy airlines reported worsening fatigue and mental health pressures.

For the first time, cabin crew were included in the UGent study, revealing that they face similar vulnerabilities. Younger employees, in particular, reported the highest stress levels and the weakest institutional support.

The report also identified structural and legal loopholes in EU aviation law. Over 10% of respondents said their designated “home base” did not match their actual work location, raising compliance issues related to taxation, social security, and labor laws. Wet-leasing carriers, while representing a smaller workforce segment, accounted for nearly one-third of the most serious contractual discrepancies.

At the report’s presentation, Prof. Dr. Yves Jorens emphasized the urgent need for reform: “Labour conditions are no longer just a social issue – they directly affect safety, well-being, and fatigue. Without fair and stable employment, Europe cannot sustain a safe and resilient aviation sector.”

The authors called on EU institutions to strengthen employment protections, strictly enforce home base rules, integrate crew well-being into safety management systems, and improve collective representation for all aviation staff.

With the European Commission currently reviewing Regulation (EC) 1008/2008, the study underscores the need for regulatory clarity and fair labor standards to ensure that Europe’s aviation sector remains both safe and sustainable.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, traveldailynews.com

Tags: FlightSafety, SyndicEx251019B

EU Study Finds Insecure Aircrew Contracts Threaten Flight Safety

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